This chapter begins with the Thomas Jefferson administration. It examines his expansionism, including the Louisiana Purchase, and efforts to build a democracy emphasizing the yeoman farmer, his wars against the Barbary pirates and Tecumseh, efforts to counter Britain’s predatory dumping, and trade and political tensions with Britain that led to the War of 1812. James Madison led an unprepared United States into war against Great Britain in 1812. The US mounted numerous failed invasions of Canada and suffered many defeats until later in the war. The war saw the rise of Andrew Jackson, a successful American general. Also examined is the Second Barbary War. Expansion, security, and sovereignty remained key aims, and the tariff remained a key issue.