James Monroe was the fifth President of the United States, serving from 1817 to 1825. He was a prominent figure in the early years of the United States and played a key role in shaping the country's foreign policy and expansion. Monroe is perhaps best known for his Monroe Doctrine, which stated that the United States would not tolerate further European colonization in the Americas. He also oversaw the acquisition of Florida from Spain and the Missouri Compromise, which admitted Missouri as a slave state and banned slavery in the Louisiana Territory north of the 36°30' parallel. Monroe's presidency was marked by economic prosperity and westward expansion, but was also marred by the Panic of 1819, a major economic downturn that hurt many Americans. Despite these challenges, Monroe remains an important figure in American history and is remembered for his leadership and vision for the young nation.