Constructionists Jefferson & Madison

Essay by ilejuariHigh School, 11th gradeA-, April 2006

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During the presidencies in 1800's of Jefferson and Madison their characterized views as strict constructionists were opposed to the broad constructionist of the Federalists. Jefferson, who after all argument between Hamilton brought the beginning of the two political parties, believed in strict Constitution, was not able to follow his theory efficiently. Madison doing the same thing, he too was viewed different then what his belief of strict constructionist included. This extent of the two parties was very accurate. Jefferson bought the "Louisiana Purchase", and passed in the Embargo Act that changed his view. While Madison passed Macon's Bill No. 2, and vetoed the federal funding for roads and declared war of 1812.

In spite the inauguration of Jefferson becoming president, the Federalist Party was dying out. In his presidency Jefferson, mentioned as a strict constructionist, decided to pass "The Embargo Act". It was aimed to bring British and France to downfall, because America forbade trading their goods with them, and other nations.

As shown in one of the popular cartoon picture, a snapping turtle holding a Federalist shipper from trading resembling this act.

In addition, one of Jefferson's broad construction actions was the "Louisiana Purchase". The land was sold by Napoleon Bonaparte for $15 million. This included the New Orleans plus more land to the west. The problem that arose was that it was unconstitutional to expand lands to the west. Instead Jefferson decided to buy it at the end. The land not only doubled the United States size, but led him to go against his belief of strict constructionist.

On the other hand, Madison after Jefferson's presidency signed the Macon's Bill No.2 in 1810 after left with the Embargo Act. Macon's Bill No. 2 still forbade trade with the British and French but traded with other nations. This...