Question

What first caused President Jefferson to believe the United States should purchase the Louisiana Territory?
(1 point)
France had threatened to invade the United States.
Spain had closed the port of New Orleans to American trade.
France offered the region to the United States at a reduced rate.
Spain gave the Louisiana Territory back to France.

Answer 1

President Jefferson's belief that the United States should purchase the Louisiana Territory was primarily influenced by the fact that **Spain had closed the port of New Orleans to American trade**. This closure raised concerns about the economic implications for western settlers and the accessibility of trade routes. The availability of New Orleans was crucial for transporting goods, making it a significant factor in Jefferson's interest in acquiring the territory.