Roosevelt's "Good Neighbor" policy

Definition

Roosevelt's 'Good Neighbor' policy was a diplomatic approach initiated in the 1930s aimed at strengthening relationships with Latin American countries through mutual respect and cooperation rather than military intervention. This policy marked a significant shift from earlier U.S. foreign policies that often involved direct intervention in the affairs of Latin American nations, promoting non-intervention and trade agreements as means to foster goodwill and stability in the region.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 'Good Neighbor' policy was officially articulated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his inaugural address in 1933, emphasizing the importance of friendly relations with Latin American nations.
2. This policy led to the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Nicaragua and Haiti, signaling a commitment to non-intervention and respect for sovereignty.
3. Roosevelt's administration sought to improve trade relationships with Latin America through reciprocal trade agreements, fostering economic ties and mutual benefit.
4. The policy was influenced by the desire to counteract European fascist influences in the region during the interwar years, promoting stability through cooperation.
5. The 'Good Neighbor' policy also included cultural exchanges and initiatives to promote understanding between the United States and Latin America, reinforcing diplomatic ties.

Review Questions

• How did Roosevelt's 'Good Neighbor' policy differ from previous U.S. foreign policies toward Latin America?
  • Roosevelt's 'Good Neighbor' policy represented a significant departure from previous U.S. foreign policies, particularly those characterized by military intervention such as the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. Instead of using force to influence Latin American nations, this policy emphasized diplomacy, mutual respect, and non-intervention. It sought to build cooperative relationships based on economic ties rather than coercive tactics, marking a new approach to inter-American relations.
• Evaluate the impact of the 'Good Neighbor' policy on U.S.-Latin American relations during the 1930s.
  • The 'Good Neighbor' policy had a profound impact on U.S.-Latin American relations in the 1930s by fostering a more cooperative and respectful atmosphere. By withdrawing troops from occupied nations and emphasizing trade agreements, Roosevelt was able to mend relationships that had been strained by past interventions. This shift not only improved diplomatic relations but also laid the groundwork for collaboration during World War II, as the United States sought allies in the Western Hemisphere against Axis powers.
• Analyze how Roosevelt's 'Good Neighbor' policy addressed both domestic concerns and international pressures during the interwar period.
  • Roosevelt's 'Good Neighbor' policy was shaped by domestic concerns related to the Great Depression and international pressures stemming from rising totalitarian regimes in Europe and Asia. Domestically, improving relations with Latin America was seen as a way to stimulate trade and economic recovery for the U.S. economy. Internationally, by promoting stability and goodwill in Latin America, Roosevelt aimed to prevent European powers from gaining influence in the region, thereby ensuring that the Americas remained a sphere of U.S. influence while creating a united front against fascism. This multifaceted approach reflected Roosevelt's recognition of the interconnectedness of domestic prosperity and international security.

Related terms

Monroe Doctrine:

A U.S. policy established in 1823 asserting that European intervention in the Americas would be viewed as a threat to U.S. interests, laying the groundwork for American dominance in the Western Hemisphere.

Pan-Americanism: The principle of political and economic cooperation among all countries in the Americas, promoting solidarity and collaboration across the continent.

Dollar Diplomacy:

A foreign policy strategy employed by President Taft that aimed to use economic power to extend U.S. influence in Latin America through financial investments and loans.