Throughout American history, ideas of national identity have coexisted with regional and group identities. How did ideas of freedom, democracy, citizenship, diversity, and individualism define the American experience?
This link leads to our document exhibit. Editor Julian P. Boyd noted the "transcendent importance of this charter of national liberties," the most famous document drafted by Jefferson. See also on Founders online: https://founders.archives.gov/ancestor/TSJN-01-01-02-0176
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.
Jefferson in Paris reacts to news of Shays Rebellion in Massachusetts by declaring “I like a little rebellion now and then.”
Writing to James Madison from Paris, Jefferson presents a detailed argument that “the earth belongs always to the living generation.”
Jefferson asserts that since the Constitution does not explicitly grant the power to establish a national bank to the federal government, that power belongs to the states and the people. Therefore he believes that the bill is unconstitutional.
Jefferson believes the production of maple sugar and olive oil will reduce US dependence on foreign trade.
Jefferson challenges the constitutionality of the Alien and Sedition Acts and suggests the possibility of a state's authority to nullify federal law.
Jefferson expresses his political creed in this statement of republican principles with his unifying and conciliatory exhortation, "we are all republicans: we are all federalists".
Cooper encourages Jefferson to hire Benjamin Latrobe, an architect who will correct the current "tawdry stile" of public architecture.
In his reply to Boardman, Jefferson offers no comment on political appointments, but acknowledges receipt of a sermon on religious freedom and articulates the rights of conscience and free speech.