National Expansion

This section includes documents that point to economic and social ideas behind national expansionism, especially the Louisiana Purchase. Topics include the development of infrastructure, postal roads, urban growth, territorial expansion, and statehood.

To James Madison, 30 January 1787

Jefferson declares that “a little rebellion now and then is a good thing” but stresses the importance of maintaining a unity of interests between the eastern and western parts of the United States.

To the Senate and the House of Representatives, 18 January 1803

Jefferson solicits congressional support for extending external commerce, especially by funding an exploration of the Missouri River and the territory beyond it He suggests an appropriation of $2,500 to advance "the geographical knowledge of our own continent" and to find a route to the Pacific Ocean.

To Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours, 1 February 1803

Jefferson relies on his French friend to help maintain peaceful relations between the United States and France, informs him of James Monroe's appointment as a special envoy, and stresses the importance of the Mississippi and the American right of deposit at New Orleans.

To Meriwether Lewis, 4 July 1803

Jefferson gives Meriwether Lewis a letter of credit authorizing him to draw on the US government for whatever funds or resources may be needed for a westward exploratory expedition.

From Wilson Cary Nicholas, 3 September 1803

After conversing with Jefferson and considering Article 4, Section 3 of the US Constitution, Nicholas argues that no amendment is necessary for the acquisition of Louisiana He advises the president against issuing a public opinion that an amendment is needed.

To Wilson Cary Nicholas, 7 September 1803

Although Jefferson maintains that a “safe & precise” interpretation would require amending the Constitution before adding new territory to the union, he gives up his insistence on an amendment for Louisiana.

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