Thomas Jefferson
By: Joshua Woodruff
Early LIfe
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743 in Shadwell, Virginia, United States. At 17 Jefferson entered the college of William and Mary, here he was exposed to science and the system of things that were in place. Thomas Jefferson decided to pursue law, studying it with George With. He read widely in the law, in the sciences, and in both ancient and modern history, philosophy, and literature.
Getting Involved
Jefferson's public career began in 1769 serving as a representative in the Virginia House of Burgesses.
Choices & Results
Jefferson's greatest work was writing the Declaration of Independence. In June of 1776 he was at the head of the committee to prepare the paper. A rough draft was submitted to John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, two other committee members. Both suggested minor changes and then it was sent to Congress. Congress debated it for 2 1/2 days. After many changes the Declaration finally emerged on July 4.
In His Words
Of all his accomplishments, Thomas Jefferson wanted to be remembered for three: writing the Declaration; writing the Statue of Virginia Religious Freedom; and as the father of the University of Virginia.
Aftermath
Jefferson's popularity was high until the end. He retired to Monticello with the affection of the overwhelming majority of his countrymen. He passed away on July 4, 1826 in Albemarle County, Virginia, this was the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Word For Him
"Thomas Jefferson once said, "We should never judge a president by his age, only by his works." And ever since he told me that , I stopped worrying." - Ronald Regan
Legacy
Jefferson's legacy to the United states is large. He increased the size of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase and supported democratic participation of the common people. As a founding father and the author of The Declaration of Independence Jefferson embodies the ideals of the United States.
Annotated Bibliography
1.