Raphael+-+JMon+-+SP09



James Monroe 1817-1825 Born: April 28, 1758 in Westmoreland County, VA Death: July 4, 1831 Political Party: Anti-Federalist - Practiced law in Fredericksburg, VA - 1790 elected a senator - 1799-1802, 1811 Governed Virginia First term: 1817-1821 -Vice president: Daniel D. Tompkins Second term: 1821-1825 -Vice president: Daniel D. Tompkins

James Monroe was a truly great president in character and in decisions. His presidency was not the most impact full on our world today. However he was “clutch” when it mattered during his two-term presidency. For that Monroe earns himself a B plus. Monroe set himself up for a good presidency by picking an all star Cabinet; with John C. Calhoun at Secretary of War and John Q. Adams at Secretary of State. James Monroe the “mild-mannered” anti-federalist came into presidency and led the nation into the “Era of Good Feelings”. During this time America felt a sort of false sense of security because shortly after occurred the Panic of 1819. This was a crushing blow that set back nationalism and really put a dent in his legacy. But, as any great man would Monroe continued to look forward and helped the nation recover with the Missouri Compromise. The Missouri compromise was a major bill that set the stage for the further expansion and development of this country. It added two state Missouri and allowed it a slave state and Maine as a free state. Even more importantly it banned slavery over the 36˚30 line. This meant that the north would eventually gain an advantage over the south because at the time there was no more available land under Missouri’s southern border. The most notable skill and achievement showed by Monroe were his foreign affairs and the Monroe Doctrine. He was looking to avoid trouble with Spain until Florida became pat of the Union. The Doctrine stated that Latin America must be left alone and also Russia must not attempt southward colonization. Lastly no European Power may attempt to colonize there. Monroe proved himself time and time again to be a good president. His Missouri Compromise and Monroe Doctrine are what etched his name, in large font, into the stone of our country’s history. Due to Monroe’s composure and decision making he has earned his B plus.