March 4, 1801 – Thomas Jefferson is the first President inaugurated in the new capital city of Washington D.C. – He delivers his first inaugural address. This address outlines what he feels are the essential principles of government.
Father: Peter Jefferson Like most sons of land owners, he studied land surveying Graduated from William and Mary University in Williamsburg, VA Tall, red-headed, quiet
The government which governs least, governs best Strongly favored States Rights as opposed to a strong national government Believed in a strict construction, or strict interpretation, of the U.S.Constitution Wanted to end all taxes of any kind paid by U.S. citizens
Wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence Wrote the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom Created the University of Virginia Served as an ambassador to Europe from the United States
January 18, 1803 – Jefferson asks Congress for funds to explore the land west of the Mississippi – His goal is to find a water route to the Pacific May 1804 – Meriwether Lewis and William Clark depart on the expedition
January 18, 1803 – Jefferson sends a secret message to congress regarding the Lewis and Clark Expedition – In this message Jefferson asks for permission to establish trading with the Indians
Renewal of the Napoleonic Wars between France and Great Britain America was once again trapped between the two nations Jefferson wanting to stay neutral proposed an embargo on all foreign trade This was highly unsuccessful and devastated the American Economy The Non-Intercourse Act of 1809 was put in place to repeal the unsuccessful Embargo Act
Essential Principles of Government – equal and exact justice to all men – peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations – the support of state governments – the preservation of general government – punishment for those who choose to revolt – compliance with the decisions of the majority – a well disciplined militia – honest payment of debts – maintaining a sound economy – proper distribution of information – freedom of religion – freedom of the press
Delivered on March 4, 1805 Stresses the importance of American neutrality in matters of foreign affairs Outlines the Louisiana Purchase and the processes by which the original inhabitants of the land will become citizens of the United States Stresses the importance of harmony amongst all inhabitants of America