Madison And Jefferson's Federalist Ideas

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 within themselves, and united as to everything respecting foreign affairs"(Doc A). This belief that anything not mentioned within the Constitution was reserved for the states was represented the Democratic-Republican ideals a good deal. Thus, as in the Kentucky resolutions, both concluded that the federal government had exceeded its constitutional powers and that the states should not accept the Alien and Sedition Acts. Also, the Republicans strived for democracy; a weak central government; a rigid economy; the reduction of federalist office holders; state banks; relative freedom of the press and speech; concentration of agriculture in the South; minimal navy for coastal defense, which was achieved by Jefferson; and were primarily pro-French. These ideals were addressed during the Jefferson and Madison presidencies. However, in times of great crisis, the two presidents seemed to abandon their Democratic-Republican beliefs and lean towards a strong central government.

The Louisiana Pu...

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...th Madison and Jefferson's decisions for a strong central government. However, the effects of war were primarily positive, which would highlight the Federalist ideals, which worked in America's favor.

While two major events in the United States occurred during both Jefferson and Madison's presidencies, the two men seemingly crept towards a stronger central government. The Louisiana Purchase was a huge advantage to the United States, though it didn't exemplify the Democratic-Republican ideals. Additionally, the Congressional ability to regulate trade further granted more power to the central government during Madison's administration. These two factors were important events in history. Although both strict-constructionist, Democratic-Republicans, the two presidents were able to strengthen the central government for the prosperity of the United States of America.