Thomas Jefferson primarily championed the idea of yeoman farmers as key participants in American democracy. He believed that an agrarian society composed of independent, land-owning farmers was essential for a healthy republic. While Jefferson's views on merchants and traders were somewhat positive due to their role in the economy, he did not envision them as the primary backbone of democracy.
Jefferson's attitudes toward women and African Americans were more exclusionary; he did not advocate for their participation in democracy. Women were largely excluded from political life during his time, and his views on slavery and race did not align with the inclusion of African Americans in the democratic process.
Therefore, the group Jefferson most wanted to participate in American democracy was yeoman farmers.
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