I am not a Federalist, because I never submitted the whole system of my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever. . . . Such an addiction is the last degredation of a free and moral agent. If I could not go to heaven but with a party, I would not go there at all.
In his book "American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson," Joseph J. Ellis explores Jefferson's strong individuality and unwavering commitment to his personal beliefs. Jefferson's rejection of Federalism highlights his disdain for dogmatic adherence to any political party or system. He believed that aligning oneself completely with a party compromises one's freedom and moral autonomy, which he regarded as degrading.
Jefferson's perspective reflects his view that true liberty involves the ability...
