As a shift in power occurred following the Revolution of 1800, a new breed of politicians emerged following republican footsteps. Traditionally characterized as strict constructionists who opposed the broad constructionism of the Federalists, the parties of Jefferson and Madison attempted to combine the views of both, as Jefferson stated himself, "We are all Republicans, we are all Federalists." The initial characterization of the two parties remained accurate as the two parties sought to keep their strict constructionist views, and only accepted broader constructionism when unforeseen developments required adaptation.

As Thomas Jefferson took office he came with a succinct vision of exactly how he wanted the country to develop. In his letter to Gideon Granger the 13th of August 1800, Jefferson states his opposition concerning a strong national government, and preference for state governments. Jefferson attempted to keep the influence of the government at a minimum, refusing to intermeddle with arising...