1758 - 1831
James Monroe
To what, then, do we owe these blessings? It is known to all that we derive them from the excellence of our institutions. Ought we not, then, to adopt every measure which may be necessary to perpetuate them? Seventh Annual Message (Monroe Doctrine)
Overview
James Monroe was the last American President of the “Virginia Dynasty”—of the first five men who held that position, four hailed from Virginia. Monroe also had a long and distinguished public career as a soldier, diplomat, governor, senator, and cabinet official. His presidency, which began in 1817 and lasted until 1825, encompassed what came to be called the "Era of Good Feelings." One of his lasting achievements was the Monroe Doctrine, which became a major tenet of U.S. foreign policy in the Western Hemisphere.
Fast Facts
James Monroe
Westmoreland County, Virginia
College of William and Mary (graduated 1776)
Episcopalian
Lawyer
Democratic-Republican
“The Last Cocked Hat,” “Era-of-Good-Feelings President”
February 16, 1786, to Elizabeth Kortright (1768–1830)
Eliza Kortright (1786–1835), James Spence (1799–1800), Maria Hester (1803–1850)
5
Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond, Virginia
