Question

The Monroe and Truman Doctrines were guiding policies for the United States during the Cold War, and part of an eminently Realist approach to global politics. Perhaps no area of the world was more impacted by these doctrines than South and Central America. Explain what the Monroe Doctrine and Truman Doctrine are, and how they relate to Realist IR theory. How did they manifest themselves in 20th century American interventions in South and Central America?

Answer 1

The international relations realistic theory argues that state, military, and self-interest are key factors that influence the international relations strategy of any country.

The Monroe and Truman doctrine effectively pronounced American foreign policies.

The Monroe doctrine came to being in 1823 when the European powers were struggling to control Latin America. The USA declared that European powers should not subjugate the Countries of Latin America and the US was ready to use its military and economic powers to restraint the actions of European powers. It was the most humanely foreign policy and recognized human rights.

Apart from this, Truman also formed the foreign policy in 1947 that also helped to control the unbridled expansion of communism in Latin America, US was even ready with military and warship to counter the expansion of communism. It was policy of containtment.