"The citizens of the United States cherish sentiments the most friendly in favor of the liberty and happiness of their fellow man on that side of the Atlantic [Europe]. In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy so to do. . . . We owe it, therefore, to candor and to the amicable relations existing between the United States and those powers 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, Message to Congress, December 2, 1823
Use the passage to answer the question.
In this message, James Monroe promoted a foreign policy that would become known by which of the following names?
A.
interventionism
B.
selective foreign aid
C.
free trade
D.
isolationism
D. isolationism
D. isolationism
The answer to the question is D. isolationism.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the context and message conveyed in the passage. President James Monroe states that the citizens of the United States prioritize liberty and happiness for their fellow men on the European continent. He further explains that the US has never gotten involved in the wars and internal matters of the European powers, and it is not in their policy to do so.
Based on these statements, Monroe declares that any attempt by European powers to extend their system to any part of the American hemisphere would be seen as a threat to the peace and safety of the United States.
This message reflects an isolationist foreign policy, emphasizing non-interference in the affairs of other nations, particularly those of Europe. Monroe's statement expresses the belief that the United States should maintain a safe distance from international conflicts and focus on their own interests.