How did the Monroe Doctrine reflect American foreign policy interests?

The Monroe Doctrine established the United States as a leading power in the Americas by asserting that the Western Hemisphere was under the sphere of influence of the U.S. This doctrine, articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, warned European nations against further colonization or interference in the affairs of independent nations in the Americas. By doing so, it effectively positioned the U.S. as the dominant authority in the region, signaling to both European powers and Latin American countries that the U.S. would protect its interests and those of its neighbors from external influence. This marked a significant shift in American foreign policy, moving towards a more assertive role in the Western Hemisphere and emphasizing the idea of American exceptionalism, where the U.S. would act as a guardian of democratic principles in the region.