Jefferson and Madison

How did different regional interests affect the debates about the role of the federal government in the early republic?
How and why did American foreign policy develop and expand over time?
How do the presidencies of Jefferson and Madison contrast?

"Revolution of 1800"
- Refers to the election of Thomas Jefferson and the peaceful transfer of power from Federalists to Democratic-Republicans, symbolizing a change in political authority.
- Jefferson positioned himself as the "people's president", emphasizing the ideals of liberty and democratic governance.
Policy Continuity and Change
- Jefferson did not completely undo Federalist policies but instead modified them.
- He advocated for a society composed of independent farmers, favoring agrarian over industrial interests.
- Influenced the actions of Republicans in Congress to pursue his vision.
Fiscal Policies
- Insisted on halving the federal budget, reducing presidential expenses, and cutting the national debt.
- Reduced the size of the army and navy, yet established military academies such as West Point for training military leaders.
- Encouraged Congress to abolish internal taxes.
- Raised revenue primarily through tariffs and the sale of western land.

Judiciary Act of 1801 Repeal
- Jeffersonians were suspicious of the judicial branch, leading to the repeal of this act, which had increased the number of federal judges.
- Eliminated many of John Adams’ "midnight appointments", which were last-minute judicial appointments made before Jefferson took office.
Marbury v. Madison
- James Marbury, a midnight appointee, sues for his commission that was withheld by Secretary of State James Madison.
- The Supreme Court (SCOTUS) establishes the precedent for judicial review, asserting the Court's authority to invalidate legislation.
- Chief Justice John Marshall, a Federalist, utilized this case to strengthen the power of the Supreme Court over legislative and executive actions.

Background of the Purchase
- Napoleon intended to regain lost North American territory and secretly reacquired rights to Louisiana from Spain.
- The Spanish closed New Orleans to American trade, prompting Jefferson to seek the purchase of the city for economic reasons.
The Purchase Deal
- Napoleon offered the entire territory of Louisiana when his plans for an American empire collapsed.
- James Monroe and Robert Livingston were sent to negotiate the purchase, which was formalized through a treaty ratified by the Senate.
- Jefferson expressed concerns regarding the constitutional authority to make such a purchase, fearing it might exceed his presidential powers.

Detailed mapping and exploration of the newly acquired Louisiana Territory.
Significant cooperation with Native American tribes for guidance and resources.
Extended knowledge of the geography, resources, and biodiversity of the western territories.

Essex Junto, 1804
- A group of extremist Federalists who proposed secession of New England and the formation of a new country.
- Aaron Burr was rumored to support this plan in exchange for a candidacy for governor.
Duel with Hamilton, 1804
- Alexander Hamilton campaigned against Burr, resulting in a duel where Burr shot and killed Hamilton.
- This led to major ramifications for Burr’s political career..
Treason and Trial, 1806-08
- Burr fled New York, presided over the impeachment trial of Justice Samuel Chase, and attempted to invade Mexico and capture territory in Louisiana.
- Captured under suspicion of treason, Burr was acquitted on a technicality and subsequently fled to Europe.

Prelude to War
- Ongoing conflicts with Britain and France, particularly as wars resumed in Europe after 1803.
- Embargoes imposed to protect American neutrality adversely impacted the Federalist-leaning Northeast economy.
- Increasing tension on the frontier due to renewed Native American conflicts, aided by British support for certain tribes.
- Southern states desired annexation of Florida due to conflicts arising from runaway slaves and Native American attacks.
War Hawks
- Young Republicans, nicknamed “War Hawks,” favored aggression against Britain to secure territorial expansion into Canada and Florida.
- Prominent figures included Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun.
Early Military Engagements
- Initial efforts led to a failed invasion of Canada, but some victories were accomplished on the Great Lakes.
- Despite early setbacks, the British captured Washington, D.C., yet were repelled at the Battle of Fort McHenry.
- The Battle of New Orleans solidified Andrew Jackson's national hero status.

Federalists in New England convene to discuss grievances related to the war and the increasing central power of the government.
Radical members proposed secession and separate peace with the British and reasserted the right to nullification.
A call for seven new Constitutional amendments was made:
- Repeal of the three-fifths compromise.
- A requirement for a two-thirds supermajority in Congress for new states' admission, declarations of war, and trade restrictions.
The dissent of the Federalists was overshadowed by news of victory at New Orleans and the Treaty of Ghent, leading to their discrediting.

Discussion on the contrasting views of Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence versus his writings about slavery, showcasing a complex moral perspective.
Inquiry into Jefferson's shifting views and how his actions correlate with his status as a founder of the American republic.
Consideration of Jefferson’s legacy, questioning whether he should be remembered more for his achievements or failures in his political and personal life.