The city of new orleans was an important factor in thomas jefferson's desire to purchase the louisiana territory from france. which of these is a primary reason for jefferson's desire? a. new orleans was key to accessing and controlling trade on the mississippi river. b. jefferson was concerned that new orleans would fall into the hands of great britain. c. new orleans was important to keeping a balance of "free" and "slave" areas in the country. d. jefferson need to be assured that french culture would be limited and eventually eliminated here.