Hist up 10 1877 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Hist up 10 1877 - Essay Example The way in which he established a policy to expand westward was to first slash the minimum amount of land that a farmer had to purchase. Originally a farmer had to purchase 640 acres, by 1832 a farmer only had to purchase 40 acres and the price per acre was slashed substantially. This made a strong financial incentive for settlers to steadily move west. In regards to how Jefferson viewed the West as being crucial to the well being of the republic, it is the case that he believed that scores of in small scale farmers that would be active participants in the American democracy. These people would help contribute to both the economic health of the country but also contribute to democratic health of the American Republic. #2-A) In regards to the first statement I am inclined to agree overall. Whilst there may have been an original plan to settle the west it may also be the case that Jefferson’s plan had been altered over time. With British colonial expansion in the Pacific North W est it may be the case that Westward settlement would have been seen as a defensive expansion. There was a significant increase in population across the Eastern seaboard and expansion would be a natural means to alleviate these pressures.