Final answer:
The 'Revolution of 1800' refers to the peaceful political transition from the Federalist to the Democratic-Republican party and not to economic changes, making Jefferson's characterization apt, despite the growth of cities and the commercial economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question suggests that historians might refute Thomas Jefferson's claim that his election in 1800 was a 'Revolution' on the basis that the United States was undergoing major economic transformations, with cities and commercial economy becoming increasingly important. However, the term Revolution of 1800 refers not to economic changes, but to the peaceful transfer of political power from the Federalist Party to the Democratic-Republican party, marking a substantial philosophical shift in government. This was the first time in modern history where such a transfer occurred without violence or upheaval.
Jefferson's election was indeed a turning point in American politics as it reflected a transition from Federalist policies favoring urban commerce and a strong central government to Democratic-Republican ideals emphasizing agricultural interests and states' rights. Additionally, it was clear that the public participation in politics was increasing, as evidenced by reforms like the expansion of voting rights to a broader segment of the population after the War of 1812. These reforms and others helped to weave together local, regional, national, and international developments into what is known as the market revolution.