government that seemed less intrusive and overbearing than the one Washington and Adams had created. In his eight years in office Jefferson brought the national debt down from $83 million to $57 million.49 He cut taxes and spending. In a new time of peace—the Quasi-War ended six months before his inauguration—Jefferson reduced military spending to prewar levels and downsized the Navy to thirteen frigates.50,51,52,53 For the moment, he believed, it was impossible for the United States to attempt to rival the naval powers of Europe.54 His maritime strategy was one of defense, except in regard to
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