Non-fiction: Annual Message to Congress (The Monroe Doctrine)

Overview
Delivered to Congress on December 2, 1823, James Monroe’s annual message surveys the nation’s condition and, most memorably, sets out a foreign policy for the Western Hemisphere that later came to be called the Monroe Doctrine. While affirming peace, prosperity, and prudent defense at home, Monroe turns to mounting transatlantic tensions to articulate principles meant to safeguard the independence of the new American republics and the security of the United States.

Geopolitical Context
Monroe situates his remarks in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, when European monarchies, acting in concert, contemplated restoring Spain’s former dominion in the Americas. He also notes disputes arising from Russia’s expansive claims along the North Pacific coast, and the broader question of how far Old World systems might reach into the New. Against this backdrop, he frames a policy that draws a sharp line between European political arrangements and developments in the Western Hemisphere.

Core Principles
Monroe declares that the American continents are “henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers.” This non-colonization principle is paired with a firm warning: any attempt by a European power to extend its political system to the Americas, or to oppress or control the governments that have declared and maintained their independence, would be viewed as an unfriendly disposition toward the United States. At the same time, he pledges that the United States will not interfere in the internal concerns of European powers, nor in wars among them, thereby establishing parallel spheres of concern.

Application to Europe and the Americas
Monroe distinguishes between existing European colonies and any new schemes for domination. With the former, he states, the United States has not interfered and will not interfere. With the latter, particularly any effort to reimpose colonial rule in the newly independent states of the Americas, he draws a clear boundary. He stresses that the political systems of Europe and the liberties secured in the New World are fundamentally different, and that importing Europe’s system to the hemisphere would threaten American peace and safety. Regarding Russia’s claims on the Northwest Coast, he notes that negotiations are ongoing and emphasizes the broader principle that future colonization is inadmissible.

Recognition and Neutrality
Monroe affirms that the United States has recognized several new governments in the Americas after they demonstrated independence in fact and in law. He expresses goodwill toward them and hopes for their stability and prosperity. Yet the message also reiterates a longstanding policy of neutrality in European conflicts. The United States seeks amicable commerce with all, entangling itself with none, while reserving the right to judge threats in its own hemisphere as matters touching its vital interests.

Domestic Notes and Tone
Though best remembered for its foreign policy, the message also references a generally favorable domestic picture: public credit strengthened, commerce active, defenses under steady improvement, and a disposition to fortify the coasts and sustain a capable navy. The tone is firm but temperate, assertive in principle, restrained in practice, aimed at deterring interference without courting war.

Legacy
Cast as a practical response to immediate dangers, the message articulates enduring maxims: non-colonization, non-intervention by Europe in the Americas, and American abstention from European quarrels. By announcing these ideas before Congress and the world, Monroe marks the Western Hemisphere as a distinct political sphere and signals that the United States, while seeking peace and commerce, will guard that sphere’s independence as a matter of national security.