LAD # 10: The Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine is a United States Policy which was signed into effect on December 2, 1823.  It states that if the European powers try and colonize any part of the New World, then it will be seen as an aggressive action.  Americans as well as the Russians and British believed that now was the time to end imperialism in the New World.  This doctrine explained that if a country tried to colonize the New World any more than it would be met with intervening action.  This doctrine was signed at a time when many Latin American countries were close to becoming independent from Spain, and it made sure that if they became independent they would remain that way.  New countries in the New World were also officially recognized as independent countries such as Chile and Mexico.