Question

“Louisiana as ceded by France is made part of the United States. Congress may make part of the United States other adjacent territories which shall be justly acquired.

“Congress may sever from the United States territory not heretofore within the United States, with consent of a majority of the free males above 21 years, inhabiting such territory.”

James Madison, secretary of state, proposed constitutional amendment [not passed], 1803

Which of the following best describes a major purpose of the proposed amendment?


To strengthen the United States alliance with France

Option A,To strengthen the United States alliance with France

a

To give individual states the legal right to secede from the Union

Option B,To give individual states the legal right to secede from the Union

b

To give Congress additional constitutional powers

Option C,To give Congress additional constitutional powers

c

To give the president more control over negotiating treaties

Option D,To give the president more control over negotiating treaties

d

Answer 1

Option C — To give Congress additional constitutional powers.

Reason: The proposal would let Congress make newly acquired territories (like Louisiana) part of the United States and set rules for incorporating or detaching territories — expanding Congress’s authority over territorial matters after the Louisiana Purchase.