4.2_Notes on the Era of Jefferson and Federal Government Debates

Era of Jefferson

The period encompassing Thomas Jefferson's presidency (1800-1809), marked by significant political debates over the federal government's role and scope.

Election of 1800

Jefferson's victory demonstrated a peaceful transfer of power between the Federalist and Democratic-Republican parties, a significant moment in American political history.

Peaceful Transfer of Power

The orderly transition of governmental authority from one political party to another, exemplified by the Election of 1800.

Federalists

Early American political party (e.g., Washington, Adams) that advocated for a strong federal government and adopted a loose constructionist view of the U.S. Constitution.

Democratic-Republicans

Early American political party (e.g., Jefferson) that advocated for limited federal government and adhered to a strict constructionist view of the U.S. Constitution.

Loose Constructionist

The belief that the federal government can take actions not explicitly stated in the Constitution, justified by implied powers (e.g., Alexander Hamilton's argument for a National Bank).

Strict Constructionist

The belief that the federal government can only exercise powers expressly granted by the Constitution, limiting its authority to what is written (e.g., Democratic-Republican opposition to the National Bank).

Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8)

A clause in the U.S. Constitution used by loose constructionists to argue for implied federal powers, allowing Congress to make all laws 'necessary and proper' for executing its enumerated powers.

Louisiana Purchase (1803)