LAD #10: The Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine

 

 

1. What did the issuing of the Monroe Doctrine express from an American perspective post War of 1812?

 

After the War of 1812, increased feelings of nationalism led to more assertiveness regarding the territory of the Western Hemisphere. This was kind of arrogant because they hadn't won the war; it was a tie. Regardless, when the Monroe Doctrine was issued, the Americans believed that the European powers shouldn't make any further efforts to colonize or interfere with other countries in that area. They also felt that if there was action taken, it would be a threat the their security and the United States would have to intervene.

 

2. What was Secretary of State Adams' hope when he wrote the Monroe Doctrine?

 

Adams wanted to prove that the United States wasn't going to let itself get pushed around, directly or indirectly, by the European powers. He also hoped that it would make clear America's position on further colonization, which helped to cement its foreign policy.

 

3. What is the key phrase in the entire document that you need to remember as the cornerstone of American foreign policy?

 

"It is only when our rights are invaded or seriously menaced that we resent injuries or make preparation for our defense." This quote shows that the United States is generally neutral to other countries' affairs, and only takes action if it's a threat to American peace and security.



Columbus Blog #8

Christopher Columbus

I think that Columbus should be considered more of a villain than a hero, based on his actions. He is often attributed to being the one who first discovered America (he wasn't), but even this discovery was a mistake. He was trying to find a quicker route to get to Asia in order to trade more efficiently, but accidentally stumbled upon the Americas. He then exploited the native people living there for other countries' gain, including enslaving and killing them, which eventually led to the almost complete eradication of the native people's culture when more conquistadors arrived.

LAD #9: Jefferson's 1st Inaugural Address

Jefferson's 1st Inaugural Address

He opens his address by thanking those who helped him get there, and saying how he looks forward to collaborating with the legislature. Jefferson then states that in spite of conflicting opinions, people will follow the law and contribute to the common good due to the Constitution. He says that even though the will of the majority rules, the minority will have equal rights, also claiming that even if religious intoleration has been eliminated, it would still be just as bad if there was also political intoleration. Jefferson strongly believes that people are free to have their own opinions. He then goes on to say that a "wise and frugal government" is the only thing not present in people's lives. Jefferson also lists qualities that he finds most essential to the United States government, including "exact and equal" justice, friendship (but no alliances) with foreign nations, the supremacy of the majority"s will, and the freedoms of religion and press, stating that these principles have helped to guide the nation to where it is. Lastly, Jefferson mentions how proud he is to take on the role of President and asks the public to forgive his errors that he might make while in office.