42. The excerpt describes the federal government policy established by which landmark executive action?
Answer: C
Monroe Doctrine of 1823
The excerpt outlines the Monroe Doctrine, which established that the American continents were no longer open to colonization by European powers, emphasizing American sovereignty and independence.
A) Louisiana Purchase Treaty of 1803
The Louisiana Purchase Treaty was an agreement between the United States and France, through which the U.S. acquired a vast territory west of the Mississippi River. It does not relate to the assertion of independence from European colonization described in the excerpt.
B) Adams-Onís Treaty of 1821
The Adams-Onís Treaty involved the cession of Florida from Spain to the United States and was concerned with territorial boundaries rather than the broader principle of opposing European colonization. Thus, it does not align with the context of the excerpt.
C) Monroe Doctrine of 1823
The Monroe Doctrine specifically articulates the policy that the American continents are to be free and independent, rejecting future colonization attempts by European powers. This matches the principles stated in the excerpt perfectly, making it the correct answer.
D) Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo of 1848
This treaty ended the Mexican-American War and resulted in significant territorial gains for the United States. It does not address the issue of European colonization or the independence of American continents, therefore it does not relate to the excerpt.
Conclusion
The Monroe Doctrine of 1823 is definitively the correct answer as it embodies the principle articulated in the excerpt regarding the independence of the American continents from European colonization. All other options focus on specific treaties that do not encompass this broader policy of asserting American sovereignty and independence.