James Monroe Biography

James Monroe was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia on April 28 of the year 1758. At a mere 16 years old, he went to study law at the College of William and Mary. With the British and colonies edging closer and closer to war, he left school to fight in the army. At the Battle of Trenton, he was promoted to Lieutenant because the Captain of his force was too wounded to serve, so he was given the authority to lead into battle. After the war, he became Thomas Jefferson’s student in law, married Elizabeth Kortright Monroe, had three children, led the Marilyn militia in the war of 1812, and eventually was elected to two terms as president after he predecessor, James Madison, retired.

James Madison, the last of the revolutionary patriots to become president, took his oath of office on March 4th, 1817. His presidency was known as the era of good feelings because the nation was in tranquil and peaceful state. He easily won the 1816 and 1820 presidential election, along with his vice presidential mate Daniel Tompkins, represented the Democratic-Republican political party, and had an eventful first term. During his presidency, Florida and the Louisiana Purchase territories were added to the nation. Monroe strongly believed that the federal government didn’t have the authority to tell states whether or not they could allow slavery so he almost vetoed the Missouri Compromise.

A major event during Monroe’s presidency was the introduction of the Monroe Doctrine. The event occurred in December 1823. In his newest policy, he addressed that European powers would not be looked upon kindly if they tried setting up known colonies in the Americas or any European nations interfering with North and South American affairs.

An interesting fact about James Monroe is that he was shot in his shoulder during the Revolutionary War. What makes this event so interesting is the fact that the bullet stayed in his arm for the rest of his life. James Monroe eventually died of heart failure...