What was the founding fathers' view on the relationship between the US and Latin America?

The founding fathers had a mixed view on the relationship between the US and Latin America. On one hand, they saw Latin America as a source of economic opportunity and potential allies in the fight for independence from European powers. On the other hand, they also viewed Latin America as an area of potential conflict and instability.

One of the key figures in early US-Latin America relations was Thomas Jefferson, who believed in the idea of hemispheric unity and cooperation. He advocated for the establishment of a pan-American system, in which the newly independent states of Latin America would be united in a common alliance with the United States. This idea was partly motivated by a desire to counter European influence in the region.

However, not all founding fathers shared Jefferson's vision. Some, like Alexander Hamilton, were more skeptical of Latin American countries and believed that the US should focus on its own interests. Others, like James Monroe, saw Latin America as a potential threat to US security and were wary of involvement in the region.

The relationship between the US and Latin America has been complex and often turbulent throughout history, shaped by a variety of factors including economic interests, geopolitical considerations, and cultural ties. While the founding fathers did not have a unified view on the issue, their ideas and policies continue to influence US-Latin America relations to this day.