Thomas Jefferson: Statesman of the Old South

Thomas Jefferson: Statesman of the Old South

by David Williams

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	140 KB
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Thomas Jefferson was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and the third President of the United States. Jefferson was a brilliant thinker and a gifted writer, and his ideas have had a profound impact on American culture and politics.

Early Life and Education

Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, at Shadwell, his family's plantation in Albemarle County, Virginia. His father, Peter Jefferson, was a successful planter and surveyor. His mother, Jane Randolph Jefferson, was the daughter of a wealthy planter. Jefferson had two sisters, Martha and Mary.

Jefferson received his early education at home from his father and tutors. He was a voracious reader and showed a great aptitude for learning. In 1760, he entered the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. He graduated in 1762 with a degree in law.

Political Career

Jefferson began his political career in 1769, when he was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses. He quickly became a leader in the House and was known for his eloquence and his commitment to the rights of the people.

In 1775, Jefferson was elected to the Continental Congress. He served on the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence, and he was the principal author of the document. The Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

Jefferson served as Governor of Virginia from 1779 to 1781. He was a strong supporter of the American Revolution, and he played a key role in the state's war effort.

After the war, Jefferson served as Minister to France from 1785 to 1789. He returned to the United States in 1789 and was appointed Secretary of State by President George Washington. Jefferson served as Secretary of State until 1793.

Presidency

Jefferson was elected President of the United States in 1800. He served two terms, from 1801 to 1809. During his presidency, Jefferson pursued a policy of peace and prosperity. He reduced the size of the military, lowered taxes, and paid off the national debt.

Jefferson also made significant contributions to American education and culture. He founded the University of Virginia in 1819, and he was a patron of the arts and sciences.

Later Life

After his presidency, Jefferson retired to Monticello, his plantation in Virginia. He continued to be active in public life, and he wrote extensively on politics, religion, and philosophy. Jefferson died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Legacy

Thomas Jefferson was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and the third President of the United States. Jefferson was a brilliant thinker and a gifted writer, and his ideas have had a profound impact on American culture and politics.

Jefferson's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a slave owner, and he held some racist views. However, he was also a strong advocate for the rights of the people, and he played a key role in the foundation of the United States.

Jefferson is remembered as one of the greatest presidents in American history. He was a brilliant leader who helped to shape the nation's destiny.

Additional Resources

• Monticello
• The Library of Congress: The Jefferson Papers
• PBS: American Experience: Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence

Thomas Jefferson: Statesman of the Old South

by David Williams

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	140 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	38 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE