Final answer:
Thomas Jefferson believed the main purpose of government was to secure the natural rights of citizens with minimal interference, favoring a smaller government to provide more freedom.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers, held a steadfast belief in the purpose of government being to serve its citizens by providing them with the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness with minimal interference. His presidency underscored the principle that a smaller federal government meant more freedom for the people. Jefferson's opposition to the Alien and Sedition Acts, his advocacy for the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions, and his efforts to diminish unnecessary governmental roles, such as reductions in the military, all point to his belief of limited government. Furthermore, Jefferson's idea of an agrarian society and his stance on diplomacy highlight his approach to avoid conflicts and international affairs, favoring expansion and exploration for the nation's growth, while also trying to handle relations with Native Americans peacefully.