What did the Monroe Doctrine declare regarding the Western Hemisphere?

• A. It is open to all European nations.
• B. It is closed to interference by European powers.
• C. It is a territory under U.S. control.
• D. It promotes free trade among nations.

Answer: (B)

The Monroe Doctrine declared that the Western Hemisphere is closed to interference by European powers, marking a significant policy stance by the United States in the early 19th century. This doctrine, articulated in 1823 by President James Monroe, was a response to growing concerns about European colonialism and intervention in the affairs of newly independent nations in Latin America.

By asserting that any attempt by European nations to colonize or interfere in the Americas would be viewed as an act of aggression, the United States positioned itself as a protector of the Western Hemisphere. This declaration was pivotal in establishing the U.S. as a dominant power in the region and signaled a shift in foreign policy that sought to limit European influence in Latin America.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the intentions or content of the Monroe Doctrine. For instance, it did not promote the idea of open access for all European nations nor claim direct territorial control by the U.S. Additionally, while the doctrine would later be interpreted to support American economic interests in the region, it did not primarily focus on promoting free trade among nations. Instead, it firmly established a boundary against European intervention.