Observation: Poinsett clarifies that this "pledge" does not represent a formal or binding commitment. Interpretation: This says to me that while the U.S. said before that it promotes strong opinions about protecting Latin American independence, its policy itself was limited and cautious. This gap shows how the U.S. wanted to be a defender and protector, but avoided making concrete promises in in foreign conflict. Connection: This relates back to our theme this week of commerce driven involvement, but America's real priority was maintaining its trade routes and stability, not more moral crusades. The Monroe Doctrine's key points say that we were off limits to European colonization, we reject monarchy, and we should not get involved in European wars. Context: This reflects the post War of 1812 period when the U.S. was trying to expand its influence in the Americas without provoking conflict with Europe. The Monroe Doctrine was more or less a diplomatic tool, showing how the U.S. wanted to be a global power, but not over involved in conflicts.

Observation:Poinsett is saying he interprets the President's message to be a promise to protect the newly independent Latin American nations from Europe. Interpretation: This shows that the early leaders of the U.S. thought themselves as leaders and guardians of republicanism in the Americas. The tertiary sources this week speak to that, because the U.S. was involving themselves way outside our country, they just lacked the resources to do it. Connection: This connects to the tertiary sources in the talks about commerce and ideology and how that drove their transatlantic politics. Defending republics meant protecting trade and commerce, and above that, our very own trade and commerce. Change Over Time: This shows change over time- how the U.S. went from winning independence, to trying to assert themselves as a global power, despite having limited military, especially navy, under the Jefferson Presidency.

Observation: Even though the U.S. supports Latin American nations, this support does not give them the right to demand U.S. intervention Interpretation: This shows that Poinsett viewed American involvement as a strategic, not moral obligation. His beliefs seem to indicate that the U.S. should choose how and when it engages in all things abroad because U.S. power is growing. Connection: This relates to the Monroe Doctrine from 1823 specifically because there is a wish to protect the U.S. from European influence, but yet, they are also asserting their authority on the global stage. Causality: This statement by Poinsett shows how the caution of the U.S. to intervene formally was caused by fears of being involved in foreign conflicts. However, the U.S. still wanted to show their influence and power while also protecting their interest.

Observation: The President demands explanations through diplomatic channels. Interpretation: This tells us that despite the U.S. being a young nation, they are already stepping into the transatlantic politics which are driven by commerce. This supports the assertion that the U.S. wants to be a major international player. Commerce and political influence were the major influences behind U.S. interest and engagement across the seas. Connection: The tertiary sources tell us about the U.S. wanting to become a major power, but our resources (especially our resources in military and naval protection) was lacking. This source supports this pattern, showing how America was trying to shape global affairs with our republication virtue. Change Over Time: The U.S. was trying to evolve from a small, isolated republic to an aggressive, international, diplomatic power.

Observation: This quote is stating her innocence and the fact that she has been held captive for over a week. It shows us the unjust in the trials and what these women went through during this time in history.