America and Europe

On 2nd December 1823, President James Monroe addressed the Congress of the USA as follows:

'...the American continents... are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers... In the wars of the European powers, in matters relating to themselves, we have never taken part, nor does it comport with our policies to do so.'

In the same year, Thomas Jefferson wrote to Monroe, saying:

' It is our policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. I have ever deemed it fundamental for the United States never to take part in the quarrels of Europe, Their political interests are entirely distinct from ours..... The are nations of eternal war.'

Make of that what you will.