Opposing Views Of John Marshall And Thomas Jefferson

553 Words3 Pages

Thomas Jefferson believed that the primary role of the government was to secure and protect human rights, liberty and freedoms of individual citizens. Jefferson opposed a strong federal government and believed that more power should be given to the state and local government. He was an advocate of limiting the powers of central government he feared that it would eliminate the authority of the states. Jefferson’s political “platform called for the shrinking of the federal government.” Jefferson also believed that the Constitution should be interpreted strictly.
John Marshall believed in a strong national government. Marshall had the “united we stand, divided we fall” concept. The United States Supreme Court due to Chief Justice John Marshall …show more content…

It was apparent that Jefferson disliked Alexander Hamilton , Jefferson actually said that him and Jefferson “daily pitted in the cabinet like two cocks.” and or readings stated that Jefferson was “disgusted” by George Washington in regards to their opposing views on the French revolution and the ongoing hostility with Jefferson that he resigned as secretary of state. Jefferson was a Democratic Republican and Marshall a Federalist of course there would be conflicts. However, in regards to Marshall I feel as though the ruling on the Marbury v.Madison case heightened Jefferson’s dislike of Marshall. The Great Chief Justice, states the Jefferson was in awe and intimidated by Marshall’s powers and persuasion. Marshall was welcomed home a hero in 1798 as a result of the XYZ affair, Jefferson was upset and declined to attend a diner honoring Marshall. What I found ironic was that the article went on to state that 6 years prior to 1798 Jefferson had written a letter to Madison stating “I think nothing better could be done than to make him a judge.” Marbury v. Madison was in1803. My belief is that Jefferson disagreed with Marshall political views and that he neither liked nor disliked Marshall as a