James Monroe, the 5th President, born on April 28, 1758, in Virginia, is best known for the Monroe Doctrine, which warned European powers against further colonization or intervention in the Americas. His presidency saw a period of relative political harmony known as the “Era of Good Feelings,” although underlying sectional tensions were brewing. Monroe’s administration expanded the country through the acquisition of Florida from Spain and dealt with post-war recovery from the War of 1812. His foreign policy was robust yet aimed at peace, focusing on national security and economic growth. After his presidency, Monroe retired to his estate in Virginia, where he lived until his death on July 4, 1831, coincidentally sharing this date with the passing of fellow presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
