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Frederick Douglass and Thomas Jefferson The many terrible cruelties and treacheries that compose the institution of slavery are exposed through Frederick Douglass self narrated story of his life. The book is very political, in that it is written to advocate the cruelties of the institution of slavery, and gain support for its abolition. Douglass analyzes the many different elements that allowed whites to keep control of their institution. I believe that Douglass would be strongly influenced by Thomas Jefferson's political ideals and government.
One of the fundamental paradoxes of Jefferson's personal and political life has been his attitude towards life. Although he owned slaves, he eventually tried to abolish slavery in the western territories that were being added to the United States. Thomas Jefferson is most well known for his part in writing the Declaration of Independence. He has contributed greatly to the building of our government. He was also a remarkable man who set fourth the basic ideals and beliefs in government that have stayed the same for over two hundred years. Jefferson believed that states could best govern the domestic matters within its state, but a strong Central Government is needed as well to deal with foreign affairs and to keep the country strong as a unified nation.
He once stated, While smaller governments are better adapted to the ordinary objects of society, larger confederations more effectively secure independence and the preservation of republican government (Jefferson 76). What he was saying in this quote is that small governments like our state and our towns are the best fit to deal with the concerns of the people. In turn helping the people live the best and happiest lives possible. As well as being a believer in states rights Jefferson felt that the constitution should be strictly obeyed. The preservation of the general government in its whole constitutional vigor, as the sheet anchor of our peace at home and safety abroad I deem the essential principles of our government, and consequently those with ought to shape its administration. He thought that the government as a whole could not do anything that was not put under their responsibilities in the Constitution.
He believed in strict interpretation of the Constitution. Even though he felt this way, he was forced to go against this view when it came to the Louisiana Purchase. The right to purchase lands was not given to the president in the Constitution, but Jefferson saw a great opportunity to expand this great nation. He went beyond the Constitution because it was for the benefit of the country and the people.
Additionally, Jefferson strongly believed in a democratic form of government. Where the people could participate and be governed as they see fit. The easiest way to make your point is to be governed by a smaller government like our states and towns. The individual has an easier way to change their government if it is smaller. This is why Jefferson thought that as many issues as possible should be left up to the states. Being the great man he was, he was also able to see that uniting all the states in one confederation would benefit all the states and the people.
Through his belief that the government is in place to better the lives of the people over which it rules came his belief that government should not do more than is outlined in the Constitution, in order to keep it in check. The government should know its limits and not intrude on the rights of the people by reaching beyond its limits. Thomas Jefferson was eloquent advocator of the rights of people, role in government, and as the governments role in society Bibliography:
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Research essay sample on Frederick Douglass And Thomas Jefferson
