Why did Jefferson support the Louisiana purchase?

Answer 1

The Louisiana Purchase was one of the largest land deals in history. In 1803, the United States paid approximately $15 million dollars for over 800,000 square miles of land. This land deal was arguably the greatest achievement of Thomas Jefferson's presidency but also posed a major philosophical problem for Jefferson.

Answer 2

The US very much needed secure access to the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi River. In those days, the Ohio and Mississippi River and connecting streams were the only practical way to move goods and people to much of the Western territories. The roads were mostly just trails, impassible much of the time and unsafe for travelers due to Indians. River boats were much safer and faster.

When Napoleon offered the to sell the entire Louisiana territory, Jefferson saw its value, not only for the present but for the future.

Answer 3

Jefferson was willing to go against his ideas of "strict construction" to purchase the Louisiana Territory because he felt that the purchase would benefit the country with trade and agriculture.

Answer 4

Jefferson thought about seeking a constitutional amendment. Jefferson took the offer to Congress and Congress approved the treaty and the money. He thought Napoleon would back out of the deal

Answer 5

he worried whether the purchase was legal. the Constitution said nothing about acquiring new territory.