Monroe DoctrineKey Concept 4.3: The U.S. interest in increasing foreign trade and expanding its national borders shaped thenation's foreign policy and spurred government and private initiatives. Struggling to create an independent global presence, the United States sought to claim territory throughout the North American continent and promote foreign trade. United States government sought influence and control over North Americaand the Western Hemisphere through a variety of means, including exploration, military actions, American Indian removal, and diplomatic efforts such as the Monroe Doctrine.
