Why Did Jeffersonian Americans Considered Broad Constructionists
Jeffersonian Republicans were often portrayed as strict constructionalists and the Federalists were considered broad constructionalists, but this characterization was untrue in many ways. Between 1801 and 1817 their primary beliefs on economics, military, and the judicial branch seemed to change completely.
When Thomas Jefferson became president, he began to change his view on economics drastically. Jefferson and Madison, both republicans, talked about limited government. However when they served as President, both men excersized powers not granted in the constitution. Jefferson originially believed that the country would never exist in harmony as long as the Federalists supported ideas not stated in the Constitution. (A) Despite this, Jefferson purchased large amounts of western land from France in the Lousiana Purchase without senates approval. The Federalists believed this …show more content…
This was considered broad constructionalism because normally Jeffersonians would try to limit military spending and expansion of their military, yet the decision to go to war was not changed. Most did not agree with the war, but it was most unpopular in New England where citizens were extremely dependent on trade.The Constitution stated that 2/3 must support the war before it can be declared but Jefferson believed he had the final decision (E). Federalists complained that the Consitution did not state anything about enforcing a draft, and that it would be similar to creating a dictator (D). Another way in which Federalists began to exhibit strict behaviors was by setting up the Hartford Convention. This showed that they were trying to secede from the war against Britain, but began the downfall of the Federalist party due to their disloyalty. All of these things show how each party gradually switched their views on the Constitutions
When Thomas Jefferson became president, he began to change his view on economics drastically. Jefferson and Madison, both republicans, talked about limited government. However when they served as President, both men excersized powers not granted in the constitution. Jefferson originially believed that the country would never exist in harmony as long as the Federalists supported ideas not stated in the Constitution. (A) Despite this, Jefferson purchased large amounts of western land from France in the Lousiana Purchase without senates approval. The Federalists believed this …show more content…
This was considered broad constructionalism because normally Jeffersonians would try to limit military spending and expansion of their military, yet the decision to go to war was not changed. Most did not agree with the war, but it was most unpopular in New England where citizens were extremely dependent on trade.The Constitution stated that 2/3 must support the war before it can be declared but Jefferson believed he had the final decision (E). Federalists complained that the Consitution did not state anything about enforcing a draft, and that it would be similar to creating a dictator (D). Another way in which Federalists began to exhibit strict behaviors was by setting up the Hartford Convention. This showed that they were trying to secede from the war against Britain, but began the downfall of the Federalist party due to their disloyalty. All of these things show how each party gradually switched their views on the Constitutions