Historical Figure
James Monroe
1758–1831
Founding Father, U.S. president from 1817 to 1825
Talk to James Monroe
Have a conversation with this historical figure through AI
Biography
James Monroe was an American Founding Father who served as the fifth president of the United States from 1817 to 1825. He was the last Founding Father to serve as president as well as the last president of the Virginia dynasty. Monroe was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party, and his presidency coincided with the Era of Good Feelings, concluding the First Party System era of American politics. He issued the Monroe Doctrine, a policy of limiting European colonialism in the Americas. Monroe previously served as Governor of Virginia, a member of the United States Senate, U.S. ambassador to France and Britain, the seventh secretary of state, and the eighth secretary of war.
In Their Own Words (5)
National honor is the national property of the highest value.
First Inaugural Address (4 March 1817) , 1817
It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty. Usurpation is then an easy attainment, and an usurper soon found. The people themselves become the willing instruments of their own debasement and ruin.
First Inaugural Address (4 March 1817) , 1817
I do therefore recommend the third Thursday in August next, as a convenient day to be set apart for the devout purposes of rendering to the Sovereign of the Universe and the Benefactor of mankind, the public homage due to his holy attributes; of acknowledging the transgressions which might justly provoke the manifestations of His divine displeasures; of seeking His merciful forgiveness, His assistance in the great duties of repentance and amendment; and especially of offering fervent supplications, that in the present season of calamity and war, He would take the American People under his peculiar care and protection; that he would guide their public councils, animate their patriotism, and bestow His blessing on their arms; that He would inspire all nations with a love of justice and of concord, and with a reverence for the unerring precept of our holy religion, to do to others as they would require others to do to them; and finally, that, turning the hearts of our enemies from the violence and injustice which sway their councils against us, He would hasten a restoration of the blessings of Peace.
Proclamation – Humiliation and Prayer (20 August 1812) , 1812
The mention of Greece fills the mind with the most exalted sentiments, and arouses in our bosoms the best feelings of which our nature is susceptible.
Message to Congress (December 1822) , 1822
The American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European power.
1823
Timeline
The story of James Monroe, told in moments.
Crossed the Delaware with Washington and was shot through the shoulder at the Battle of Trenton. He nearly bled to death. A doctor clamped the severed artery just in time. He was 18.
As minister to France, helped negotiate the Louisiana Purchase. Napoleon offered the entire territory for $15 million. Monroe and Robert Livingston signed the deal without waiting for Jefferson's approval.
Inaugurated as the fifth president. Won the election so decisively that his two terms became known as the "Era of Good Feelings." He ran virtually unopposed for reelection in 1820.
Signed the Missouri Compromise. Missouri entered as a slave state, Maine as free, and slavery was banned above the 36 30 line. It held the union together for 30 years.
Declared the Monroe Doctrine. Warned European powers against further colonization or interference in the Americas. The policy shaped U.S. foreign relations for two centuries.
Artifacts (15)
More from the Enlightenment
Explore what happened on the days that shaped James Monroe's life. Today In History connects historical figures with the events, births, and deaths that defined their era. Browse all historical figures or explore today's events.