Final answer:
Thomas Jefferson acted on his beliefs about government by reducing the size and scope of the federal government during his first term as President.
Step-by-step explanation:
During his first term as President, Thomas Jefferson acted on his beliefs about government by reducing the size and scope of the federal government. He believed in a small government that would support an agrarian society and promote individual liberty. To achieve this, Jefferson cut back on unnecessary government expenses, such as the army and navy, while funding exploration and expansion to allow the young country to grow.