How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
At the proposal of the Russian Imperial Government […]instructions have been transmitted to the minister of the United States at St. Petersburg to arrange by amicable negotiation the respective rights and interests of the two nations on the northwest coast of this continent […] A similar proposal has been made by His Imperial Majesty to the Government of Great Britain […] The Government of the United States has been desirous by this friendly proceeding of manifesting the great value which they have invariably attached to the friendship of the Emperor and their solicitude to cultivate the best understanding with his Government. (1-3)
The first major point of the Monroe Doctrine (no more colonization) is the culmination of this discussion about recent negotiations with European countries about North American territory. These types of political dealings helped lead to the policies of the Monroe Doctrine; they gave Americans something tangible to hold up as an example of both American strength but also potential vulnerability. Oh, what a tangled web the Pacific Northwest weaves.
Quote #2
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 to do so. (9)
Non-entanglement with Europe wasn't just happenstance, it was a deliberate "policy." Does that fact change the effect of the main points of the Monroe Doctrine? How?
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… (12-13)
Republicanism replacing monarchy is a big deal for the Americas—it's kind of their forte. The balance of power and the potential spread of a different political system was a concern for both sides. For some weird reason, different types of governments often don't get along.
Tomato, to-mah-to, right? Apparently not.
Here, Monroe implies that expansionist concerns are different depending on which system you have. What would each side be worried about, if the other system spread further? What was at stake?