Description
Fifth President of the United States, James Monroe, was the last of the Founding Fathers to serve in the office as well as the final President of the so-called Virginia dynasty. His greatest legacy, the Monroe Doctrine, opposed European colonialism in North America and asserted the United States' dominion over the American west leading to further settlements. Monroe, under third President Thomas Jefferson's tutelage, successfully negotiated the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the claimed territory of the United States. Monroe was born in Virginia and served in the Continental Army during the American Revolution.Monroe served as fourth President James Madison's Secretary of State during the War of 1812, and his service made him the obvious choice for the Presidency in the election of 1816. Monroe was responsible for bringing statehood to Florida and Missouri, and his policies were conciliatory towards the British while hostile towards Spanish expansion into North America. Monroe was elected Senator in 1790 but left his post in 1794 to serve as the Ambassador to France under first President George Washington. During Monroe's first term as President, the opposing Federalist Party collapsed, ensuring his victory in the subsequent election in 1820.This print produced by American artist Gilbert Stuart is another link to America's political history as Stuart had produced portraits for all four preceding presidents establishing a tradition that remains to this day. The distinctive style and classic aesthetic make this piece a part of American history that links the viewer to the past. Overall Size: 8" W x 10" H
