The Louisiana Purchase was a land deal between France and the United States in 1803, which doubled the size of the US. President Thomas Jefferson played a crucial role in this acquisition, which had significant impacts on American expansion.

Source A: Jefferson's Letter to Congress (1803)

'The acquisition of New Orleans and the Mississippi is essential for the prosperity of our Western states and for the security of our nation.' Provenance: Letter from Thomas Jefferson to Congress, 1803.

Jefferson faced constitutional questions about purchasing new land but believed the acquisition was vital for the nation's future. His decision marked a significant moment in presidential power expansion.

Source B: Jefferson's Diary Entry (1803)

'I am constrained to admit that the Constitution does not explicitly authorize the purchase of foreign land, but the interest of our country must prevail.' Provenance: Jefferson's private diary, 1803.

The purchase significantly expanded U.S. territory and set the stage for westward expansion. It also demonstrated Jefferson's flexible approach to constitutional issues.

Source C: Historian View on the Louisiana Purchase

'The purchase was a turning point that transformed America from a small nation into a continental power.' Provenance: Historian analysis, 2020.