WHII: SOL 7a, d Colonial System, Monroe Doctrine

Latin America in 1800 For more than 300 years, from 1492 to 1800, European countries, primarily Spain and Portugal, established colonies to provide raw materials and trade for the benefit of the mother countries. Spanish conquests in Latin America saw the rapid decline of native populations and introduction of slaves from Africa. Conquistadors were given governmental authority by the crown, and they became known as viceroys.

Latin America in 1800 The Spanish and the Portuguese governments imposed the same Roman Catholic religion on the native peoples, but they brought different colonial languages. The Latin American revolutions of the nineteenth century were influenced by the clash of European cultures in the development of governments and ruling powers.

Latin America in 1800 Colonial governments in Latin America mirrored the home governments. (e.g.- language, religion, cultural traditions) Latin American colonies were strongly influenced by Roman Catholicism. Mining precious metals was a major element of the economies of the colonies. Colonies establishes a strict social class system (Peninsulares, creoles, mestizos, mulattoes, Africans, and Native Americans)**

Major cities were established as outposts of colonial authority. – Havana – Mexico City – Lima – São Paulo – Buenos Aires

Monroe Doctrine After the American Revolution, the United States wished to prevent foreign interference in the Americas. The Monroe Doctrine, issued by President James Monroe in 1823, alerted the European powers that the American continents should not be considered for any future colonization

The Monroe Doctrine was also backed by the British government. Latin American nations were acknowledged to be independent. The United States would regard as a threat to its own peace and safety any attempt by European powers to impose their system on any independent state in the Western Hemisphere. The United States would not interfere in European affairs. The document continues to be a cornerstone of American foreign policy