Question

According to this quote, what was Jefferson's concern about purchasing the Louisiana Territory?

"I infer that the less we say about constitutional difficulties respecting Louisiana the better, and that what is necessary for surmounting them must be done. A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the highest duties of a good citizen, but it is not the highest. The laws of necessity, of self preservation, of saving the country when in danger are of higher obligation." - Thomas Jefferson
A.He worried about angering farmers who shipped their crops to New Orleans.

B.He was concerned that his constitutional veto power would not be upheld.

C.He did not trust Monroe and Livingston to make a favorable deal.

D.He didn’t believe he had constitutional power to buy land from another country.
Please explain why you chose this

Answer 1

B. Is the correct answer

Answer 2

Based on the quote provided, Jefferson's concern about the constitutional difficulties surrounding the purchase of Louisiana Territory was that a strict adherence to the written laws of the Constitution might prevent the country from taking necessary actions for its self-preservation and safety.

Therefore, the correct option would be D. He didn't believe he had constitutional power to buy land from another country. Jefferson recognized that the Constitution did not explicitly grant the federal government the power to purchase foreign territory, and he was concerned that the acquisition of Louisiana might be unconstitutional. However, he believed that the acquisition of Louisiana was necessary for the safety and prosperity of the United States, and so he went ahead with the purchase despite his reservations about the constitutional implications.

Step-by-step explanation: