USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The ability to buy property from foreign governments was not among these powers listed the Constitution – a fact that his political opponents, the Federalists, were eager to point out to the President. Instead, Jefferson considered a constitutional amendment the only way to conclude the deal with France.

Detailed explanation-2: -Thomas Jefferson had always feared the costs of loose construction of the powers delegated to the national government in the Constitution, and the Constitution was silent about acquiring lands from other countries.

Detailed explanation-3: -Jefferson adhered to a strict interpretation of the Constitution and believed that without a specific enumeration of his right as president to acquire the purchase, buying the Louisiana Territory could plausibly be unconstitutional.

Detailed explanation-4: -Jefferson also worried about the constitutionality of the acquisition, for the Constitution did not specifically grant the federal government the authority to acquire more territory, and he considered an amendment to the Constitution. But Napoleon was becoming impatient and threatened to void the treaty.

Detailed explanation-5: -During this time, French Emperor Napoleon offered unexpectedly to sell the entire Louisiana Territory to the United States for $15 million. Jefferson knew the offer of $15 million for this vast tract of land was a bargain, and he did not want too much time to pass for fear that Napoleon might take back his offer.