History in 30: The Life of Thomas Jefferson

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's life was full of accomplishments and controversies, and his legacy continues to be debated today.

Early Life and Education

Thomas 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, Jane and Mary, and two brothers, Peter and William. He had a strong interest in science and philosophy from an early age.

History in 30: The Life of Thomas Jefferson

by Lory Mitchell Wingate

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2160 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	36 pages
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Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Jefferson entered the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, in 1760. He graduated in 1762 with a degree in law. After graduating from college, Jefferson returned to his family's plantation and began practicing law. He also served in the House of Burgesses, the elected lower house of the Virginia General Assembly.

The American Revolution

In 1774, Jefferson was elected to the Continental Congress. He was a member of the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776. He was one of the five-man committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. The Declaration of Independence declared the thirteen American colonies to be independent from Great Britain.

During the American Revolution, Jefferson served as the Governor of Virginia from 1779 to 1781. He was responsible for organizing the state's defense and providing supplies to the Continental Army. Jefferson also established the University of Virginia in 1819. The University of Virginia was one of the first public universities in the United States.

The Presidency

In 1800, Jefferson was elected President of the United States. He served two terms as President, from 1801 to 1809. During his presidency, Jefferson purchased the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803. The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States. Jefferson also sent the Lewis and Clark Expedition to explore the Louisiana Purchase from 1804 to 1806. The Lewis and Clark Expedition was one of the most important expeditions in American history.

Retirement

After retiring from the presidency, Jefferson returned to his home at Monticello. He continued to be active in public life and wrote extensively on a variety of topics. He also served as the rector of the University of Virginia from 1819 until his death in 1826.

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's life was full of accomplishments and controversies, and his legacy continues to be debated today. Jefferson's belief in the importance of education, democracy, and individual liberty has had a profound impact on the United States and the world.

Here are some of Jefferson's most famous quotes:

* "All men are created equal." * "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." * "I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just." * "The best government is that which governs least." * "Education is the key to unlocking the door to freedom."

Jefferson's legacy is complex and controversial. He was a slave owner who fathered children with his slave Sally Hemings. He also supported the westward expansion of the United States, which led to the displacement of Native Americans. However, Jefferson's contributions to the United States are undeniable. He was a brilliant writer, a gifted politician, and a visionary leader. Jefferson's ideas about democracy, individual liberty, and the importance of education continue to inspire people around the world.

History in 30: The Life of Thomas Jefferson

by Lory Mitchell Wingate

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2160 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	36 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE