"The American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers... We owe it therefore to candor to declare that we should consider any attempt on their part to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety." — President James Monroe, Annual Message, 1823
Monroe's declaration was most immediately a response to which contemporary development?
- Acheck_circle
Fears that European powers would help Spain reclaim its Latin American colonies
- B
French construction of a canal across Panama
- C
Russian colonization of California's Pacific coast
- D
British naval blockade of American ports during the War of 1812
Explanation
The doctrine reacted to fears that the Holy Alliance would help Spain reconquer the recently independent Latin American republics. The War of 1812 had ended; Panama and California concerns came later.