President Jefferson. Every time his name is mentioned, I’m reminded of two books: the previously mentioned Joseph Ellis’ “Founding Brothers” (which revealed the depths of Secretary of State Jefferson’s betrayal of President Washington); and Paul Boller’s “Presidential Anecdotes” from whence I first read the story of President Jefferson (purposely) answering the front door at the still-new White House in his house coat and slippers.
The leisurely dress and personal welcome fit with Jefferson’s purported desire to return the nation’s chief executive to a more reserved, humble role. However, when we examine the reality of the Jefferson presidency we find a much more vigorous figure upon the world stage.
Marauding pirates from low-trust civilizations aren’t novel to taking over your local retail stands; for a few hundred years surrounding our nation’s founding, these opportunists plied the waters of the Mediterranean making a handsome profit off the ransom racket. Though he spoke of limited involvement in foreign affairs, President Jefferson took forceful actions to demonstrate to said pirates (and the wider world) the United States of America was not going to follow the European path of capitulation when it came to our foreign interests.
In the heart of Russellville is a Kentucky historical marker at the home of Presley O’Bannon. At the Frankfort Cemetery is a crimson Kentucky historical marker (the only so colored in the Commonwealth) marking the grave of O’Bannon. And just what did Presley O’Bannon (USMC) do? He earned the distinction of being the first American military officer credited with planting the American Flag in victory on foreign soil.
What did President Jefferson’s seemingly contradictory foreign policy moves earn us? Respect. “When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.” Luke 11:21-22. It’s a dog-eat-dog world. It always has been. It always will be.
Next Week: President Jefferson’s Domestic Policy Big Idea
Shane Morris is a retired soldier and teacher. Contact at sigm11@yahoo.com (Subject: NtC)
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