Good Neighbor Policy

The Good Neighbor Policy was a diplomatic strategy initiated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the early 1930s, aimed at improving relations between the United States and the countries of Latin America. The policy marked a significant shift from previous American foreign policy, which often involved direct intervention in Latin American affairs, and was intended to foster mutual respect and cooperation among the nations of the Western Hemisphere. The policy said that economic trade would be America's primary policy and not direct military intervention.

Origins and Objectives[edit]

The Good Neighbor Policy was formally articulated by Roosevelt during his inaugural address on March 4, 1933. The policy was rooted in the idea of non-intervention and non-interference in the domestic affairs of Latin American countries. This approach was a departure from the earlier U.S. practices of military intervention and economic control, exemplified by the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine and the numerous U.S. interventions in the region during the early 20th century.

The main objectives of the Good Neighbor Policy were:

• Strengthening Diplomatic Relations: By adopting a more respectful and cooperative approach, the U.S. aimed to improve its diplomatic ties with Latin American nations.
• Economic Cooperation: The policy sought to enhance economic relations and trade between the U.S. and Latin America, benefiting both parties.
• Political Stability: By promoting non-intervention, the U.S. hoped to foster political stability and goodwill in the region, thereby reducing the influence of external powers like Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy during the prelude to World War II.

Key Implementations[edit]

Several actions and agreements exemplified the Good Neighbor Policy in practice:

• Withdrawal of Troops: The U.S. withdrew its military forces from Nicaragua and Haiti, signaling an end to direct military interventions in Latin America.
• Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (1936): Also known as the Buenos Aires Convention, this treaty among American states emphasized collective security and mutual defense.
• Economic Assistance and Trade Agreements: The U.S. negotiated trade agreements with several Latin American countries, lowering tariffs and promoting economic cooperation. These agreements helped to bolster economic ties and provide mutual economic benefits.

Impact and Legacy[edit]

The Good Neighbor Policy had a positive impact on U.S.-Latin American relations:

• Improved Relations: The policy succeeded in reducing anti-American sentiment in Latin America and improved diplomatic relations across the region.
• Cultural Exchange: There was an increase in cultural exchanges, with the promotion of Latin American art, music, and literature in the U.S., fostering greater mutual understanding.
• World War II Cooperation: The policy helped secure Latin American support for the Allies during World War II. Several Latin American countries provided crucial resources and bases for the Allied war effort.

Violations of the Policy[edit]

• Overthrow of Guatemalan President Jacobo Árbenz (1954)
• Bay of Pigs Invasion (1961)
• Intervention in the Dominican Republic (1965)
• Invasion of Panama (1989)

The Good Neighbor Policy also faced criticism and limitations. While it reduced direct military interventions, the U.S. continued to exert significant economic influence in Latin America, and some critics argue that the policy did not address underlying problems and power dynamics.

References[edit]