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Napolean Bonaparte is the general in control of France. He wants to occupy Louisiana. A former slave has assumed control of Saint Dominique. Napolean sent troups to regain control of Saint Dominique but the slaves fought back. French forces have been defeated and can't gain control of Louisiana.
 * Napolean and Louisiana**

The French now own Louisiana. Jefferson is worried that they will interfere with trading along the Mississippi if they control New Orleans. New Orleans is growing in economic importance. Many traded items have been sent to Europe. A variety of languages and cultures are creating a large diversity in New Orleans. It is now the main focal point of Jefferson's foreign policy.
 * The Mississippi Region**

President Jefferson doesn't want France controlling New Orleans but he doesn't want to start a war. He has sent the U.S. ambassador, Robert Livingston, to negotiate a price to buy New Orleans and Florida. Napolean offers to sell all of Louisiana because Louisiana would be useless to them without New Orleans. Livingston has taken the offer and will buy Louisiana from the French for $15 million.
 * Purchasing the** **Territory**

Jefferson didn't think that the Constitution granted the excecutive branch the power to bring territories into the U.S. However, he supported he deal because Livinston and Monroe convinced him too. The Senate approves the treaty made with France and are making the Louisiana Purchase. With the Louisiana Purchase, the U.S. is now twice the size that it was.
 * Expanding the Nation**