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: -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.

Detailed explanation-3: -Power Expansion What: Thomas Jefferson expanded the power of presidency through the Louisiana Purchase, an acquisition of about 828, 000 sq. mi. of land from Napoleon Bonaparte of France. This deal, worth $15 million, doubled the size of the United States and provided territory for westward expansion.

Detailed explanation-4: -Although eager to accept this vast territory, Thomas Jefferson also advocated a strict construction of the Constitution, and nowhere in the Constitution could he find authorization for the government to purchase new territory.

Detailed explanation-5: -Though it was not immediately apparent to constructionists such as U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, the Louisiana Purchase was ultimately determined to be constitutional.