James Monroe, elected in 1816, presided during the "Era of Good Feelings." The young United States was establishing its national identity in exciting times. The War of 1812 (1812-15) was over. The nation was expanding beyond the original thirteen colonies, and people were moving west for new opportunities. Political conflicts were few, as a political party called the Democratic-Republicans enjoyed widespread support and influence. Monroe was a popular president. In 1816, he won the electoral votes of all but three states; in 1820, he won the electoral votes of every state. Electoral votes are the votes a presidential candidate receives for winning the majority of the popular vote in a state.

The United States began its development as a major international power with the Monroe Doctrine (see James Monroe primary source entry in volume 1), announced in December of 1823. The young nation had been involved in a series of international disputes...