Question

Does the Monroe Doctrine represent a continuation or a change in President Washington's foreign policy? Why or why not?

a) Continuation, as it emphasizes non-intervention
b) Continuation, as it promotes territorial expansion
c) Change, as it focuses on international influence
d) Change, as it encourages isolationism

Answer 1

The Monroe Doctrine represents a change in President Washington's foreign policy, focusing on international influence by asserting American opposition to European colonization in the Western Hemisphere.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Monroe Doctrine represents a change in President Washington's foreign policy. While Washington advised against 'entangling alliances' ensuring the nation stayed out of European conflicts, the Monroe Doctrine, articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, addressed the issue of European colonization and interference in the Western Hemisphere. Secretary of State John Quincy Adams strongly influenced the doctrine, ensuring it delivered a clear message that European colonialization was not welcome and that the political systems of the Americas should remain distinct from Europe. Despite this distinction, it was also an assertion of American influence in the hemisphere, something that Washington's policy did not actively pursue.

Therefore, the correct answer is c) Change, as it focuses on international influence, since the Monroe Doctrine introduced an active American stance against European intervention in the Western Hemisphere, which was different from Washington's tendency toward non-involvement in European affairs.