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James Monroe (April 28, 1758- July 4, 1831) Political Party: Democratic-Republicans In office: 1817-1825 Vice President: Daniel D. Tompkins (1817-1825)

James Monroe, fifth President of the United States, was a significant president for his leadership, popularity, and impact throughout and after his terms. Entering the presidency during a time of heightened nationalism, Monroe used this to his advantage as President. With these contributing factors, Monroe found particular strength in foreign policy and deserves a B+ for his time as president.

Monroe’s goals as president included sustaining and even increasing the already elevated amount of nationalism throughout the United States. He did so with three tours throughout the states, during which he became better acquainted with and was admired by many Americans. He also aimed to make internal improvements, such as roads and canals. Monroe accomplished this goal by signing two different bills that allowed the overview of the suggested improvements and the extension of a road that stretched from Ohio to Virginia.

The relationship between the Monroe and Congress was strong, seeing as that his party, the Democratic-Republicans, held the majority party throughout both of his terms. Congress passed the Missouri Compromise in 1820, which temporarily eased the tension over the conflict regarding Missouri’s application to become a state. Endorsing the act, Monroe understood that it also eased nascent sectionalism, for the time being at least. The Land Act of 1820 was additionally passed during this period, proclaiming that if a buyer was in debt he could not purchase the land. In 1824, Congress passed the tariff that protected American factories from British competitors, which unfortunately brought more attention to sectionalism in the states.

During the president’s administration, one of his wisest moves was undoubtedly the possession of Spanish Florida in 1819, later to become one of the states. Additionally, if not more important, was the Monroe Doctrine. It said that the land beyond the states would no longer be subject to colonization of Europeans, and if they attempted, the Americans would respond as they saw fit. Negatively, the Panic of 1819 took place during his terms, although Monroe had virtually no control over it. He believed that a depression was a natural process that an economy had to go through to strengthen itself.

The decisions made by Monroe did have influence on the future decisions of political figures. When the Cuban Revolution took place, the Doctrine was looked upon, as well as other events. The Monroe Doctrine was a major stepping stone in foreign policy. In conclusion, the United States was better off after James Monroe’s presidency. His upholding strength showed at the end of his terms and the effect of the Monroe Doctrine can still be seen today. Monroe deserves a B+ for his dedication to the country that he was so passionate about and his footsteps in its history.

free, the, independent condition which they have assumed, maintain, and this became known as the Monroe Doctrine.. "Biography of James Monroe." __Welcome to the White House__. 30 Sep. 2009 .

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"Monroe Doctrine - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia." __Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia__. 1 Oct. 2009 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mon