What counterclaim might the European powers have in response to this portion of the Monroe Doctrine?

Question

“We have had control of parts of the American continents far longer than the United States has.”
“We will hand over all our territory in the American continents to the United States.”
“We are good and wise rulers who do not take away land from the Native American people.”
“We have no interest in the land on the American continents or its valuable resources.”
“as a principle in which the rights and interests of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers

Answer 1

A counterclaim from the European powers in response to the portion of the Monroe Doctrine might emphasize several points:

1. Historical Claims: European powers could argue that their long-standing presence and historical claims to territories in the Americas grant them rights that contradict the Monroe Doctrine's assertion that the continents are not subjects for future colonization. They might assert that their exploration, colonization, and existing settlements predate the establishment of the United States, thus legitimizing their claims.

2. Sovereignty and Independence: European nations could challenge the idea that the Americas are not subjects for colonization by stating that many territories in the Americas were already under European colonial rule or influence when the Monroe Doctrine was issued. They might argue that the independence of new nations in the Americas does not eliminate the legal or historical context of existing European territories.

3. Economic Interests: European powers could highlight their economic interests in the Americas as justification for continued engagement. They might claim that their investments and trade relationships are beneficial for both parties and that they have a legitimate stake in the resources and markets of the continent.

4. Cultural Contributions: The European nations could argue that they bring culture, education, and governance to the regions they control, framing their presence as a positive influence on the indigenous populations rather than a form of exploitation. This could be presented as a counter to the U.S. claim of being a more suitable ruler.

5. Right to Self-Determination: They might also assert the principle of self-determination—arguing that if local populations wish for European governance or influence, they should be allowed to choose their rulers, hence challenging the notion that the American continents should solely fall under U.S. influence.

Overall, European powers would likely emphasize their historical presence, legal claims, economic interests, and perceived responsibilities toward the regions they occupy as counterclaims against the Monroe Doctrine.