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By
John Vanderlyn, 1816. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution |
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Fifth President, 1817-1825
The last patriot of the Revolutionary era to become president, Monroe
was elected at a time when the nation was at peace. His presidency
was called the "Era of Good Feelings," yet the economic depression
of 1819 and ongoing debates about the extension of slavery to new
states and territories belied the name. Monroe is best remembered
for his declaration that the United States would behave unfavorably
toward European countries that tried to interfere with North and South
American affairs, warning against any attempts by European powers
to establish colonies in America. This pronouncement is now known
as "The Monroe Doctrine." |
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