AP U.S. History?

Question

I have to write a paper. And no, I'm not asking you to write it for me! Here's the assignment:

"Though Presidents Jefferson and Jackson both defined themselves as strict-constructionist advocates of limited power, historians believe that few 19th century Presidents (perhaps only Lincoln) did more to expand the powers of the national government, especially the Presidency. Evaluate the validity of this statement."

Does anyone know of any specific things that Jefferson and Jackson did to expand the power of the national government? I already have many ideas brainstormed such as Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase and Jackson's veto of the recharter of the Bank of the United States. Please help me by providing me with additional ideas to help me support my thesis that Jefferson and Jackson did indeed greatly expand the powers of the national government. Thank you!

Answer 1

Jefferson thought deeply and profoundly about the role of government but put it simply and elegantly in the Declaration of Independence. After declaring that we are all endowed by our creator with inalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, he turns to government's purpose. "That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, and that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it."

The purpose of government is to secure our inalienable rights. Not to feed us, clothe us, medicate us, control us, lead us in worship, look after our mental health or - perish the thought! - to nibble away at our rights and freedoms and expand its own power. The sole legitimate function of government is to secure our rights. When it fails to do so it ceases to be legitimate and the people have the right to take matters (back) into their own hands.