Final answer:
Thomas Jefferson and Albert Gallatin decreased the national debt by implementing strategies such as reducing government spending, encouraging economic development, and increasing revenue through policies like the Louisiana Purchase.
Step-by-step explanation:
To decrease the national debt by half, Thomas Jefferson and Albert Gallatin implemented several strategies. One of their main approaches was reducing government spending. They cut back on military expenses and reduced the size of the army and navy, which helped save money. Additionally, they focused on increasing revenue through policies such as the Louisiana Purchase, which opened up new land for settlement and economic growth.
Jefferson and Gallatin also sought to pay off the debt by encouraging economic development and trade. They promoted policies that supported the development of industry and infrastructure, such as building roads and canals. By stimulating economic growth, they aimed to generate more tax revenue to pay down the debt.
Overall, Jefferson and Gallatin's efforts to reduce spending, increase revenue, and promote economic growth played a significant role in cutting the national debt in half.