We discuss the recent military operation in Venezuela in light of the principles of the Monroe Doctrine and American First foreign policy, as summarized in Dr. Angelo Codevilla’s final book.

Matt Parks and David Corbin explore the ideas behind today's headlines.

Opening and closing music from “2020 Vision (Worse than Blind)” by Fred Lancia. Used with permission.

Opening (0:53) - We discuss the beginning of the semiquincentennial year of the United States and our plans for a new podcast series leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 

John Quincy Adams and the Monroe Doctrine (3:25) - We review the principles of the Monroe Doctrine using Dr. Codevilla’s book, America’s Rise and Fall Among Nation: Lessons in Statecraft from John Quincy Adams. Links: Dr. Codevilla’s book; Monroe Seventh Annual Message. 

The Monroe Doctrine, America First, and Venezuela (27:22) - We discuss how the principles of the Monroe Doctrine apply to President Trump’s extraction of Nicholas Maduro and his wife from Venezuela and the possible next steps for American foreign policy. 

Links: The Hill on the legality of the Venezuela incursion; Reid Smith at Foreign Affairs; J. Michael Waller on the “Donroe” Doctrine.

Tocqueville’s Crystal Ball (50:16) - We review Dave’s extraordinary picks for the first round of the College Football Playoff and make our projections for the national championship game, the Patriots-Texans game, and the AFC and NFC champions.

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Matt Parks and David Corbin both taught politics at The King’s College in New York City and have written together on reviving American republicanism, The Federalist, and Democracy in America. All views expressed in this podcast are those of the speaker and not necessarily those of their present or former employers.