What Jefferson got from Napoleon for his $15 Million was France's agreeing to not contest the U.S. for any of that territory. There was no League of Nations holding France's deed to the territory. France didn't "own" any of it like you might "own" your house or yard. France "owned" it by saying, "If y'all set foot on it we'll start shooting your asses." Much like if China invaded and conquered the U.S. today and one of their Majors decided he wanted your house then your deed wouldn't mean squat. He might let you keep the piece of paper for starting a cook fire or wiping your arse. Either is what it would be worth then.

Before paying Napoleon Jefferson looked around and saw that neither England, Spain, Portugal, nor Holland was anywhere close to threatening Louisiana (including Arkansas). He made the deal. Louisiana, including Arkansas, became ours. Because the French withdrew and there was no one else around to shoot at us.

It's the difference between "owning" your house-- a weak and tenuous ownership indeed-- and owning a property because you've got the guns to back it up.

Comprende?

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Posted by WhitewaterDawg

Tennessee

Member since Aug 2011

7233 posts

Posted on 3/20/15 at 10:06 pm to derSturm37

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Posted by Drewbie

tFlagship

Member since Jun 2012

58037 posts

Posted on 3/20/15 at 10:54 pm to derSturm37

quote:
It's the difference between "owning" your house-- a weak and tenuous ownership indeed-- and owning a property because you've got the guns to back it up.

Comprende?

Except Arkansas wasn't anyone's territory at that point in time other than the Arkansaw indian tribe. So the whole "the US didn't even want Arkansas" schtick you got going is just stupid. The territory of Arkansas was unexplored wilderness run completely by indian tribes. Please learn2history.

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Posted by Mizzou4ever