Monroe Doctrine: American Exceptionalism Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)

Quote #1

Of events in that quarter of the globe, with which we have so much intercourse and from which we derive our origin, we have always been anxious and interested spectators. The citizens of the United States cherish sentiments the most friendly in favor of the liberty and happiness of their fellow-men on that side of the Atlantic. (7-8)

At first, these words look like a message of solidarity. However, although Monroe recognizes the fact that America was a product of Europe, he subtly separates the two. Yeah, they may have started out together, but now the U.S. is over here just watching their old bros and hoping for the best.

Quote #2

With the movements in this hemisphere we are of necessity more immediately connected, and by causes which must be obvious to all enlightened and impartial observers. (11)

Obviously the U.S. is more concerned about what's going on in Latin America than Europe—it's so much closer. Clearly there's a connection. Europe wouldn't understand.

Quote #3

The political system of the allied powers is essentially different in this respect from that of America. This difference proceeds from that which exists in their respective Governments; and to the defense of our own, which has been achieved by the loss of so much blood and treasure, and matured by the wisdom of their most enlightened citizens, and under which we have enjoyed unexampled felicity, this whole nation is devoted. (12-13)

Here's a gem for you. Monroe brings up the Old World vs. New World systems of government, and really drives home how important the American system is to its citizens. He references the American Revolution (although not by name, because we all know what he's talking about), as way to remind the audience of how important their democracy is. Just saying, everyone in America is super happy living in this republic we fought and died for. How's that monarchy going over there?

Quote #4

With the existing colonies or dependencies of any European power we have not interfered and shall not interfere. But with the Governments who have declared their independence and maintain it, and whose independence we have, on great consideration and on just principles, acknowledged, we could not view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing them, or controlling in any other manner their destiny, by any European power in any other light than as the manifestation of an unfriendly disposition toward the United States. (15-16)

Monroe continues to distinguish the U.S. as the protector of the independent from the evils of European power. The Latin American republics are clearly seen as an extension of—or at least connected to—the U.S., otherwise their takeover wouldn't be seen as a threat to the United States.

Quote #5

It is impossible that the allied powers should extend their political system to any portion of either continent without endangering our peace and happiness; nor can anyone believe that our southern brethren, if left to themselves, would adopt it of their own accord. (23)

The Latin American independent countries all became republics, just like their friendly neighbor the United States. The fact that they chose republicanism over monarchy proves the American system is preferable, and that no one would choose monarchy over republicanism. The Latin American republics got the idea from the American Revolution, which clearly ties these independence movements together in such a way that if you threaten one, you threaten them all.