Note 295 — Chapter XXIX · FOREIGN RELATIONS
Reading edition
No one knows exactly what it means today because its scope has been rather indefinitely extended at various times. No doubt it would be further extended if the occasion should arise. For example, the original doctrine was directed against European powers only. But if Japan should attempt to acquire territory in Central or South America, the Monroe Doctrine would unquestionably be invoked as applicable to an Asiatic power as well.