Jefferson and the Louisiana Purchase

Thomas Jefferson, initially wary of a strong national government, faced a constitutional dilemma when the opportunity to purchase the Louisiana Territory arose. Despite his strict interpretation of the Constitution, he used implied powers to justify the acquisition, doubling the size of the U.S. This decision, while ironic given his previous stance, is considered one of the greatest real estate deals in U.S. history.

What was Thomas Jefferson's main concern about the new Constitution?

• It was too similar to the British system.

• It did not include a bill of rights.

• It gave too much power to the states.

• It gave too much power to the national government.

Who promised Jefferson to propose a bill of rights after the Constitution was ratified?

• George Washington

• James Madison

• Alexander Hamilton

• John Adams

What was Jefferson's stance on the national bank proposed by Hamilton?

• He was indifferent to its establishment.

• He believed it was unconstitutional.

• He supported it wholeheartedly.

• He thought it was necessary for economic growth.

What did Jefferson pledge to do when he became President in 1801?

• Reduce the size and scope of the national government.

• Purchase new territories.

• Establish a national bank.

• Expand the national government.

Which country secretly transferred the Louisiana Territory to France?

• Mexico

• Portugal

• Britain

• Spain

What was the initial amount Congress intended to spend on a piece of the Louisiana Territory?

• $2 million

• $5 million

• $10 million

• $15 million

How much did the U.S. eventually pay for the entire Louisiana Territory?

• $15 million

• $20 million

• $5 million

• $10 million

What constitutional argument did Jefferson use to justify the Louisiana Purchase?

• The power to levy taxes.

• The treaty-making power.

• The power to regulate commerce.

• The power to declare war.

What was ironic about Jefferson's decision to purchase the Louisiana Territory?

• He had always supported big government.

• He used an argument he previously mocked.

• He did not believe in expanding the country.

• He was against any form of government spending.

How much did the Louisiana Purchase cost per acre?

• Ten cents

• Fifteen cents

• Three cents

• Five cents