Federalist Ideals Dbq Analysis

From 1801-1817 there was a clear separation of the United States. The Federalist and Democratic-Republican parties were in strong opposition of one another. Though the Republicans were usually characterized as strict constructionists, who were opposed to the broad constructionism of the Federalists, both Jefferson and Madison's presidencies highlighted Federalist ideals in many of their decisions. This included Jefferson's unconstitutional decision in purchasing the vast Louisiana territory and Madison's… The standard Democratic-Republican had many beliefs in which followed the Constitution whole heartily. Jefferson writes, "The true theory of our Constitution is surely the wisest and best that the states are independent as to everything
Jefferson was not expecting this territory, though he authorized its purchase. As a result, this purchase was unconstitutional because Jefferson did not have the right to ratify the purchase, the House and the Senate did. Even though the House and Senate could not resist this opportunity for such land gain, Jefferson had exemplified Federalist ideals by giving great power to the central government. Perhaps this is why he felt it necessary to state, "I am certainly not an advocate for frequent and untried changes in laws and constitutions…But I know also, that laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind"(Doc G). He is stating that although he does not like broad constructionism, he agrees with the steady alteration of such laws in order to created a prosperous
As his friend, Jefferson, had done in the presidential term before him, Madison would have to lean towards a strong central government in order for the United States to prosper. As the Indians continued to receive help from the British, the embargo was placed on Britain, impressments of American merchant ships were out of control, and the war hawks expressed their desirability to go to war, war was seemingly unavoidable. His power enabled Congress to regulate commerce and equalize tariffs on the whole United States. He did this because as unorganized states regulated commerce, the nation was financially struggling. Plus, the loss of British trade was weakening the US greatly; a strong central government was needed. Unfortunately, Madison's decision to give more power to the federal government was not seen beneficial to all: "Their principle now is old Federalism, vamped up into something bearing the superficial appearance of republicanism…for this government created and gave power to Congress to regulate commerce and equalize duties on the whole of the United States, and not to lay a duty but with a steady eye to revenue…"(Doc F). Many Democratic-republicans questioned both Madison and Jefferson's decisions for a strong central government. However, the effects of war were primarily positive, which would highlight