USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Though it was not immediately apparent to constructionists such as U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, the Louisiana Purchase was ultimately determined to be constitutional.

Detailed explanation-2: -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-3: -An amendment of the Constitution seems necessary for this.” Jefferson drafted an amendment that would authorize the purchase of Louisiana retroactively. But Jefferson’s cabinet members argued against the need for an amendment, and Congress disregarded his draft. The Senate ratified the treaty in October of 1803.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Louisiana Purchase eventually doubled the size of the United States, greatly strengthened the country materially and strategically, provided a powerful impetus to westward expansion, and confirmed the doctrine of implied powers of the federal Constitution.

Detailed explanation-5: -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.