I. Era of Good Feelings A. After the War of 1812, the U.S. enjoyed a period of peace, and national pride began to grow. B. In 1817, James Monroe was elected president by a vote of 183 to 34. During his presidency, the U.S. resolved many conflicts with foreign countries.

C.Although the war with Britain was over, the U.S. still disagreed with the British on who controlled the waterways between British Canada and the U.S. D.A compromise was reached between the two with the Rush-Bagot Agreement. It limited naval power on the Great Lakes for both countries. Another treaty, the Convention of 1818, gave the U.S. fishing rights off the Canadian coast. It also set the border between the two countries at the 49 th parallel. And, both countries agreed to jointly occupy part of the Pacific Northwest.

II. The Issue of Florida A.Another issue that was resolved during this period was the border between the U.S. and Spanish Florida. B.Many Americans wanted to settle in Florida, while others wanted the Indians who lived in Florida to stop raiding and helping runaway slaves. C.In 1818, Sec. of State John Quincy Adams held talks with the Spanish diplomat about allowing Americans to settle in Florida.

D.While Adams was meeting with Luis de Onis, President Monroe sent troops (under Andrew Jackson) to secure the border. E.Jackson’s troops invaded Florida and took over most of Spain’s military posts and overthrew the governor. He did this without direct orders from Monroe. F.These actions upset the Spanish and the British, but most Americans were in favor of Jackson, winning him popularity and power.

G.Jackson’s actions helped the U.S. negotiate the Adams-Onis Treaty. H.Under this treaty, Spain gave up claims to all of Florida. In return, the U.S. gave up its claims on present day Texas.

III. Monroe Doctrine A.Spain had other problems besides Florida. The Spanish colonies of Central and South America began to challenge their rule. B.By the early 1820’s, most of these countries had declared independence from Spain.

C.The U.S. did not want European powers trying to take control of the newly independent Latin American countries. D.President Monroe decided to warn Europe not to interfere with the Americas.

E. The Monroe Doctrine, delivered on Dec. 12, 1823, stated that foreign powers should not create new colonies in North or South America. The U.S. would view any European interference with American governments as a hostile act.

F. Many Europeans strongly criticized the Monroe Doctrine. Despite their criticism, few European powers challenged the Doctrine which has played a major role in shaping U.S.- Latin American relations.