Discuss the reasons for, and nature of, the Monroe Doctrine.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments and factors as to the motives for and nature of the Monroe Doctrine. As to reasons, candidate may discuss Britain’s concern for maintenance of her trade relationships with the newly-emerged Latin American republics (which prompted British discussions with the US), the desire of the US to prevent foreign intervention in the Americas and to secure its own trade interests, the desire of the US to establish a sphere of influence and discourage additional foreign colonization or annexation, and altruistic sentiments in the US to support emerging democracies that had patterned their institutions on the US. In respect to the nature of the doctrine, candidates may emphasize the US pledge to not intervene in European affairs along with the non-intervention and non-colonization clauses directed toward Europe. The non-binding nature of the document may also be mentioned.