Was Jefferson and the US justified in purchasing Louisiana?

Answer 1

From the French side, it was justified without question. Napoleon, First Consul of France, sold the territory to the United States because France needed the funds to continue its wars in Europe. The funds arrived, so the transaction went as planned. From the US side, there was some debate as to whether the President had the right to purchase land, as such a possibility was not explicitly mentioned in the US Constitution. Strict Constructionists, among which US President Jefferson had consistently counted himself, held that if a specific occurrence is not envisioned by the US Constitution, it could not be enacted. Conversely, Loose Constructionists held that some terms in the Constitution could be reinterpreted to fit unforeseen scenarios as long as the intent was preserved. Jefferson controversially chose to use a loose constructionist reading of the provision allowing him to make treaties with foreign powers in order to buy the Louisiana Purchase.

Answer 2

Jefferson's decision to purchase Louisiana Territory was contrasted by an internal opposition, which argued it was unconstitutional.

Jefferson admitted that the US Constitution didn't contain any provision for acquiring new territory but, being advised that a strictest interpretation of the Constitution allowed the President to negotiate treaties like such purchase, he went on carrying out the negotiation related to.

Answer 3

Yes. France claimed ownership and offered to sell it. There was some question about the constitutionality of the purchase, but nobody challenged it. It set a precedent for later purchases and was a good deal for the US.

Answer 4

The main reason is that it was a bargain! For 2 and a half cents and acre the US could double it size.