Professor Frank Cogliano joins Don to discuss Thomas Jefferson's presidency and the challenges he faced. They explore Jefferson's contributions to American history, including his role as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and his initiatives to modernize the United States. The podcast also delves into the Barbary Wars, Jefferson's complex stance on a big Navy, and his revolutionary friendship with George Washington.
Jefferson's presidency saw the acquisition of the Louisiana Territory, doubling the size of the United States and expanding American trade and influence.
Despite personal reliance on enslaved labor, Jefferson's presidency included the passage of legislation to abolish the transatlantic slave trade, reflecting his opposition to slavery.
Deep dives
The Louisiana Purchase and Exploration of the West
During Jefferson's presidency, the United States acquired the vast territory of Louisiana from France, doubling its size. This included most of the land west of the Mississippi River. Jefferson sent expeditions like Lewis and Clark to explore and gather information about the newly acquired territory as well as establish American claims to the land. The expeditions were both scientific and strategic, as Jefferson sought to expand American trade and influence.
Foreign Policy Challenges and Jefferson's Response
Jefferson faced international challenges during his presidency, including the wars between Britain and France. The United States found itself caught in the middle and faced threats to its shipping and trade. Jefferson implemented the Embargo Act, which prohibited trade with foreign nations, in an attempt to protect American interests. However, the act had negative economic consequences for the United States and became a contentious issue during Jefferson's second term.
Abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade
One notable achievement of Jefferson's presidency was the passage of legislation to abolish the transatlantic slave trade. The United States outlawed its participation in the slave trade in 1807, with the law taking effect in 1808. This was a significant step towards ending the international slave trade and reflects Jefferson's opposition to the institution of slavery, despite his personal reliance on enslaved labor throughout his life.
Challenges and Unpopularity in the Second Term
Jefferson's second term as president was marked by increasing challenges and controversies. The United States faced international crises, such as the Chesapeake-Leopard affair, which strained relations with Britain. Jefferson's handling of these challenges, particularly his implementation of the Embargo Act, led to growing dissatisfaction and criticism. By the end of his presidency, he was less popular among the public and faced both domestic and international uncertainties.
Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, so how did it work out when he became the leader of this nation that he was so instrumental in founding?
For the third episode in our special series about the Presidents, we're exploring Jefferson's presidency. What challenges did he face during his time as President, and how did he mould the early years of the nation?
Don is joined for this episode by Professor Frank Cogliano, direct from Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. Frank is a Professor of American History at the University of Edinburgh.
Produced by Sophie Gee. Edited by Siobhan Dale. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.
Discover the past on History Hit with ad-free original podcasts and documentaries released weekly presented by world renowned historians like Dan Snow, James Holland, Mary Beard and more.