"1 consider the foundation of the Constitution as laid on this ground: That 'all powers ne delegated to the United States, by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, an reserved to the States or to the people' (toth Amendment). To take a single step beyond boundaries thus specifically drawn around the powers of Congress, is to take possession boundless field of power, no longer susceptible to any definition." 6. How did Thomas Jefferson Wefferson view the idea of an expansion on federal power? Why?

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Thomas Jefferson was a staunch advocate for limited federal government and a strong proponent of states' rights. He viewed any expansion of federal power beyond what was explicitly granted by the Constitution with deep skepticism and concern. Jefferson believed that the Constitution's delineation of powers was carefully crafted to prevent the central government from overreaching and infringing upon the liberties of individuals and the sovereignty of the states.

**Reasons for Jefferson's View on Federal Power Expansion:**

1. **Strict Interpretation of the Constitution:**
   - Jefferson favored a strict interpretation of the Constitution, meaning that the federal government should only exercise powers expressly granted by the Constitution. He believed that any ambiguous or unenumerated powers should not be assumed by the federal government.

2. **Protection of Individual Liberties:**
   - Jefferson was deeply committed to protecting individual freedoms and saw an expansive federal government as a potential threat to personal liberties. He feared that broad federal powers could lead to tyranny and the erosion of democratic principles.

3. **States' Rights and Sovereignty:**
   - He championed the idea that states were laboratories of democracy, capable of experimenting with policies suited to their unique populations. Jefferson believed that empowering states would better protect the rights of citizens and allow for more responsive and accountable governance.

4. **Historical Precedent and Philosophy:**
   - Influenced by Enlightenment thinkers and his own experiences, Jefferson was wary of centralized authority. He drew inspiration from the American Revolution, which emphasized resistance to oppressive centralized control.

5. **Practical Governance Concerns:**
   - Jefferson argued that a limited federal government would be more efficient and less prone to corruption and abuse of power. He believed that decentralization would lead to more effective and localized decision-making.

**Example of Jefferson's Actions Reflecting His Views:**

While Jefferson generally opposed federal power expansion, his presidency did witness actions like the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the United States. This decision was somewhat contrary to his strict constitutional principles, reflecting a pragmatic approach when he deemed it necessary for the nation's growth and security. However, his overall legacy remains one of advocating for limited federal authority and emphasizing the importance of state and individual rights.

In summary, Thomas Jefferson viewed the expansion of federal power with caution and often opposition, grounded in his commitment to a limited government framework, the protection of individual and states' rights, and a strict constitutional interpretation. He believed that adhering to these principles was essential to preserving the freedoms and democratic ideals upon which the United States was founded.
Thomas Jefferson believed that the federal government should only have the powers explicitly granted by the Constitution. He was concerned that expanding federal power could threaten individual liberties and states' rights.

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