Franklin D. Roosevelt

Definition

Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. His presidency marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Latin America, particularly through his implementation of the Good Neighbor Policy, which aimed to improve relations and foster cooperation between the U.S. and Latin American countries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FDR's Good Neighbor Policy replaced earlier interventions and military actions by emphasizing diplomacy and economic partnerships with Latin America.
2. His administration sought to promote trade and investment in Latin American countries, which helped strengthen regional economies.
3. FDR was instrumental in creating organizations such as the Pan American Union to facilitate cooperation and communication among American states.
4. During World War II, FDR's foreign policy continued to involve Latin America, securing its strategic support against Axis powers.
5. FDR's efforts helped reshape perceptions of the United States in Latin America, moving from a view of imperialism to one of partnership and collaboration.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's Good Neighbor Policy transform U.S. relations with Latin America?
  • The Good Neighbor Policy represented a major change in U.S. foreign relations by moving away from military interventionism toward diplomatic engagement and mutual respect. Under FDR, the focus shifted to fostering economic partnerships and political dialogue, which aimed to build trust between the United States and Latin American countries. This new approach helped reduce tensions and encouraged collaboration on various regional issues.
• Evaluate the impact of FDR's presidency on the economic development of Latin American nations during his time in office.
  • FDR's presidency had a profound impact on the economic development of Latin America through policies that promoted trade and investment. The Good Neighbor Policy facilitated better economic relations, leading to increased U.S. investments in infrastructure and industries within these nations. By enhancing economic ties, FDR aimed not only to stabilize the region but also to counteract influences from European powers and bolster support during global conflicts.
• Discuss the long-term implications of Franklin D. Roosevelt's foreign policy strategies for U.S.-Latin American relations post-World War II.
  • The long-term implications of FDR's foreign policy strategies laid the groundwork for a more collaborative relationship between the U.S. and Latin America post-World War II. By establishing principles of non-intervention and partnership, subsequent administrations faced pressures to maintain these diplomatic ties. This shift influenced future policies regarding economic aid, political support for democratic governance, and cooperation on security issues, ultimately shaping the dynamics of inter-American relations throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Related terms

Good Neighbor Policy: A diplomatic initiative by FDR aimed at strengthening ties with Latin American nations by promoting mutual respect and non-intervention in domestic affairs.

Lend-Lease Act: A program under FDR that allowed the U.S. to supply Allied nations with military equipment during World War II, reflecting broader international engagements.

Pan-Americanism: A political and economic doctrine advocating for cooperation among all countries in the Americas, heavily influenced by U.S. policies during FDR's presidency.