Its philosophy was based on the fundamental belief that the people are capable of self government. It stood rather for direct popular control over the government. The Democratic Party, as intellectually inaugurated by Thomas Jefferson in 1800, stood firmly opposed to a strong centralized government. It is the alpha and omega of our existence, and as long as it is followed, America will be free and secure. 'The Freedom and Happiness of Man,' said Thomas Jefferson, 'Are the sole objects of all legitimate government.' This quotation of Jefferson has been the beacon by which the course of the Democratic Party has been chartered.
