Jeffersonian democracy

Definition

The political philosophy associated with Thomas Jefferson that emphasized agrarian values, states' rights, limited federal government, strict interpretation of the Constitution, and the idea that yeoman farmers were the backbone of a democratic republic. It stood in contrast to the Federalist vision of a strong central government and industrial economy.

Examples

  • The Louisiana Purchase of 1803, which doubled the nation's size and provided land for farmers
  • Jefferson's opposition to the national bank championed by Alexander Hamilton
  • The Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions asserting states' rights against federal overreach

Related Terms

Constitution Federalism Democratic ideals Constitutional principles

Study This Concept

Practice Jeffersonian democracy with free review games in these units:

AP US History Unit 4: 1800-1848: Democracy and Expansion