Beginning of Essay
is remembered in history not only for the offices he held, but also for his belief in the natural rights of man as expressed in the Declaration of Independence and his faith in the people’s ability to govern themselves. Through his political career, advocated ....

Middle of Essay
.... state or persuasion, religious or political.’" Next, Jefferson proclaimed, "Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none." He then went on to affirm his commitment to the rights of the states and the preservation of the central government. Continuing to intermingle general principles and specific policies, that new president declared that he favored reliance for defense on a "militia rather than an army, a small navy" (Cunningham) and prosperity through "economy, the payment of debts, and the encouragement of agriculture and commerce as its handmaid." He also emphasized ba ....