Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine

Definition

The Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, articulated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1904, expanded upon the original Monroe Doctrine by asserting the right of the United States to intervene in Latin American countries to maintain stability and order. This policy justified American intervention in the region under the guise of protecting economic interests and preventing European powers from intervening in the Western Hemisphere, thereby solidifying U.S. influence during the age of imperialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Corollary was a response to fears of European intervention in Latin America, particularly after financial crises in countries like Venezuela.
2. Roosevelt believed that if countries in Latin America did not stabilize their governments and economies, the U.S. would have to intervene to prevent European powers from taking control.
3. The Corollary marked a shift from the original Monroe Doctrine's passive defense of the Western Hemisphere to a more active role for the U.S. in regional affairs.
4. It was a significant factor in U.S. interventions in various Latin American nations during the early 20th century, such as the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua.
5. The Corollary set a precedent for future American foreign policy and military interventions in Latin America and is often criticized for fostering resentment towards U.S. involvement in the region.

Review Questions

• How did the Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine alter U.S. foreign policy towards Latin America?
  • The Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine transformed U.S. foreign policy by shifting it from a defensive posture to an assertive interventionist approach in Latin America. Rather than simply opposing European colonization, the United States took on an active role in ensuring political stability and protecting its interests within the region. This led to numerous military interventions and established a precedent for future American actions in Latin America, reflecting a more imperialistic stance.
• What were some key justifications used by Roosevelt for implementing the Corollary, and how did these reflect broader themes of imperialism?
  • Roosevelt justified the Corollary by emphasizing the need for stability in Latin America to prevent European intervention and protect American economic interests. He framed U.S. intervention as a form of benevolent policing, suggesting that it was necessary to maintain order and promote democracy. This rationale reflects broader themes of imperialism, where powerful nations often claimed moral superiority as a reason for controlling weaker nations, ultimately prioritizing national interests over self-determination.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine on U.S.-Latin American relations throughout the 20th century.
  • The long-term impacts of the Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine on U.S.-Latin American relations were profound and complex. While it solidified U.S. influence in the region, it also fostered resentment among Latin American countries, leading to anti-American sentiments and movements against perceived imperialism. The legacy of interventionist policies can still be seen today, as historical grievances continue to shape diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Latin American nations, complicating efforts towards mutual cooperation and respect.

Related terms

Monroe Doctrine:

A U.S. policy established in 1823 that declared the Americas off-limits to European colonization and intervention.

Roosevelt's Big Stick Diplomacy: A diplomatic policy developed by Theodore Roosevelt, which emphasized using military force as a means of achieving American goals in foreign affairs.

Dollar Diplomacy:

A foreign policy approach used by President William Howard Taft that aimed to use economic power to achieve American interests abroad, particularly in Latin America.