Thomas Jefferson brings a sense of excitement for the American people! His administration is celebrated when we rehearse the Jefferson Litany. Jefferson accomplishes so much while in office. He more than doubled the size of the country with the purchase of Louisiana. He brings government down to the level of the average citizen and ends the Alien and Sedition Acts. After Jefferson leaves office, James Madison carries out his Democratic-Republican legacy, but war looms on the horizon. The War of 1812 provides us with new military heroes, the White House, a sense of nationalism, and even a national anthem. The Star Spangled Banner is born!

Study Guides

Chapter 8 – Jefferson Litany

Chapter 8 / Section 1 – Republicans in Power

Chapter 8 / Section 2 – The Louisiana Purchase

Chapter 8 / Section 3 – New Threats From Overseas

Chapter 8 / Section 4 – The Road to War

Chapter 8 / Section 5 – The War of 1812

Resources: These Web pages further expand on content covered in Chapter 8

www.monticello.org - Thomas Jefferson’s Home

www.archives.gov/national_archives_experience/charters_of_freedom_8.html - Judicial Review and the famous Supreme Court case Marbury vs. Madison are explained in great detail.

www.archives.gov/national_archives_experience/charters_of_freedom_9.html - The Louisiana Purchase Bargain or Blunder? This link will help identify Europe’s hopes for the destruction of America and Jefferson’s dream to expand liberty.