Meaning: The quote "If there is one principle more deeply rooted in the mind of every American, it is that we should have nothing to do with conquest" by Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, reflects a fundamental belief in non-intervention and the avoidance of imperialistic pursuits. This principle underscores the American commitment to maintaining a stance of non-aggression and non-interference in the affairs of other nations.

Thomas Jefferson, a key figure in the founding of the United States, was a proponent of a foreign policy based on diplomacy and non-intervention. He believed that the United States should not seek to conquer or subjugate other territories, but rather should focus on protecting its own sovereignty and promoting peaceful relations with other nations.

Jefferson's emphasis on avoiding conquest can be traced back to the early years of the United States, when the country was still establishing its identity and defining its place in the global community. The nation had recently gained independence from British rule and was wary of replicating the imperialistic behaviors of its former colonial power. Jefferson's words reflect a desire to distance the United States from the practices of European colonial powers and to forge a new path based on principles of freedom, self-determination, and non-aggression.

The quote also resonates with the broader principles of American exceptionalism and the notion of the United States as a beacon of liberty and democracy. By rejecting conquest and expansionism, Jefferson sought to uphold the values of self-governance and respect for the sovereignty of other nations. This stance aligns with the belief that the United States should lead by example, championing peaceful coexistence and the rights of nations to determine their own destinies.

Jefferson's aversion to conquest also reflects a pragmatic understanding of the challenges and responsibilities that come with military intervention and territorial expansion. He recognized the potential for conflicts and entanglements that could arise from pursuing conquest and empire-building, and he prioritized the preservation of the young nation's resources and energy for internal development and nation-building.

The quote attributed to Thomas Jefferson continues to resonate in contemporary discussions of American foreign policy and the role of the United States in the world. It encapsulates a foundational principle that has shaped the nation's approach to international relations and has been invoked to justify a variety of diplomatic and military decisions.

In summary, Thomas Jefferson's assertion that "we should have nothing to do with conquest" encapsulates a core tenet of American foreign policy, rooted in the belief in non-intervention and the avoidance of imperialistic pursuits. This principle reflects a commitment to upholding the sovereignty of nations and promoting peaceful coexistence, while also acknowledging the complexities and challenges associated with military conquest and expansionism. Jefferson's words continue to inform discussions of American foreign policy and the nation's role on the global stage, serving as a touchstone for debates about intervention, diplomacy, and the pursuit of national interests in the international arena.