Meaning: The quote "I called the New World into existence, to redress the balance of the Old" is attributed to George Canning, a British statesman and politician who served as Foreign Secretary and briefly as Prime Minister in the early 19th century. This quote reflects Canning's perspective on the changing dynamics of global power and the role of the New World, particularly the Americas, in reshaping the existing world order.

At the time when Canning made this statement, Europe was undergoing significant political and social transformations, including the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars and the emergence of new nationalist movements. In this context, Canning's reference to the "balance of the Old" likely alludes to the established powers and political structures of Europe, which were being challenged and reconfigured by these developments.

Canning's invocation of the "New World" refers to the Americas, which had gained independence from European colonial powers through a series of revolutions in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The United States had already established itself as an independent nation, and various Latin American countries were also asserting their sovereignty. Canning recognized the potential of these newly independent states to influence global affairs and contribute to a new balance of power.

One interpretation of Canning's statement is that he saw the emergence of the Americas as a counterweight to the traditional dominance of European powers. By "calling the New World into existence," he may have been referring to the diplomatic and economic engagement that Britain and other European nations were undertaking with the newly independent American states. This engagement was motivated by a desire to establish alliances, secure trade relationships, and prevent the reassertion of European colonial control in the region.

Moreover, Canning's perspective could also reflect a strategic recognition of the changing geopolitical landscape. As the Americas asserted their independence and sought to establish their own spheres of influence, Canning may have seen an opportunity for Britain to align itself with these emerging powers in order to counterbalance the influence of its European rivals.

It is important to note that Canning's views on the New World were shaped by the broader context of British foreign policy and imperial ambitions. Britain had its own interests in maintaining stability and influence in the Americas, particularly in the context of ongoing territorial disputes with other European powers and the expansion of its own colonial holdings in the region.

In conclusion, George Canning's quote "I called the New World into existence, to redress the balance of the Old" reflects his recognition of the changing global power dynamics and the potential for the Americas to play a significant role in reshaping the established world order. His perspective underscores the evolving relationships between the Old World powers of Europe and the emerging influence of the New World, setting the stage for new diplomatic and geopolitical alignments in the 19th century.