Question

How successful was Thomas Jefferson in living up to his republican ideals during his to terms as president?

Answer 1

Http://www.ushistory.org/us/20b.asp

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Did Thomas Jefferson live up to his own political ideals of less government and "strict constructionism" during his two terms in the presidency? Discuss whether he did or did not and cite specific examples as evidence. Some say Jefferson led a life of contradictions. When is it acceptable for a president to make a complete turnabout, or compromise, in the ideals they strongly define themselves by? Do you see any examples of this with modern-era presidents in our history? Explain.

Thomas Jefferson did live up to his own political ideals, with the exception of a few key events. He was a strong believer in strict constructionism, so to him, the Constitution was to be applied as written. Although he was in Paris at the time of the Constitutional Convention, he kept in close contact with those attending. Jefferson was a mentor to James Madison, the author of the Federalist Papers, and the Constitution, so his ideals had a strong impact. Although Jefferson was a strong supporter strict constructionism, some of his presidential choices do not reflect these ideals. One of the most well known and controversial deals ever made would be the Louisiana Purchase. This defied strict constructionism in every way, but was made in the best interest of the growing population, as well as the national economy. This is very unusual because typically, presidents do not expand their power unless there is a national crisis, or the country is at war. This is generally when it is accepted and almost expected of them. Many presidents in the modern era are full of contradictions such as Jefferson’s, Democrats and Republicans alike. A good example is from our current president Barack Obama. In his original campaign, he took leverage from the fact that George W. Bush had more executive orders than most presidents when in fact, President Obama has now surpassed him. While this is not as impactful as doubling the size of the country, the principle remains the same.