The Monroe Doctrine was formulated in 1823 by President James Monroe and justified US intervention in the Americas for over two centuries. It aimed to prevent European colonization and influence in the Americas. The doctrine was implemented through several US interventions and coups in Latin American countries from the 1850s to the 1980s, often citing reasons like communism, drugs, or a country being too friendly with Cuba. While historically used to justify military action, the Monroe Doctrine's influence has declined and current US involvement in Latin America is primarily economic.

1. MONROE DOCTRINE (1823)