Thomas Jefferson: Author of America's Eminent Lives

Thomas Jefferson: Author of America (Eminent Lives)

by Christopher Hitchens

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	829 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

FREE

Thomas Jefferson was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a Founding Father, the third President of the United States, and the author of the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson also wrote a number of other important works, including "Notes on the State of Virginia" and "The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth."

Jefferson was born in Shadwell, Virginia, on April 13, 1743. He was the third of ten children born to Peter Jefferson, a planter and surveyor, and Jane Randolph Jefferson. Jefferson's father died when he was fourteen, and he inherited his father's plantation, Monticello. Jefferson attended the College of William and Mary, where he studied law. He was admitted to the bar in 1767 and began practicing law in Williamsburg.

Jefferson entered politics in 1769, when he was elected to the House of Burgesses. He quickly became a leader in the movement for American independence. In 1775, he was appointed to the Continental Congress, where he helped to draft the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson also served as governor of Virginia from 1779 to 1781.

In 1784, Jefferson was appointed minister to France. He served in this post until 1789, when he was appointed Secretary of State by President George Washington. Jefferson served as Secretary of State until 1793, when he resigned to return to his plantation, Monticello.

Jefferson was elected President of the United States in 1800. He served two terms, from 1801 to 1809. During his presidency, Jefferson oversaw the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He also signed the Embargo Act of 1807, which prohibited American ships from trading with Europe.

After leaving the presidency, Jefferson retired to Monticello. He continued to write and to correspond with other intellectuals. He also founded the University of Virginia in 1819. Jefferson died at Monticello on July 4, 1826, the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Jefferson's writings

Jefferson was a prolific writer. He wrote on a wide range of topics, including politics, religion, science, and architecture. His most important works include:

• The Declaration of Independence (1776)
• Notes on the State of Virginia (1781)
• The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth (1819)

The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history. It is a statement of the principles of American democracy, and it has inspired people all over the world.

Notes on the State of Virginia is a comprehensive account of the geography, history, and culture of Virginia. It is a valuable source of information about the early United States.

The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth is a controversial work that presents Jefferson's views on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is a valuable source of information about Jefferson's religious beliefs.

Jefferson's legacy

Jefferson was one of the most important figures in American history. He was a Founding Father, the third President of the United States, and the author of the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson's writings and ideas have had a profound impact on American history and culture.

Jefferson's legacy is complex and contradictory. He was a slave owner who wrote about the evils of slavery. He was a champion of democracy who died in debt. But despite his flaws, Jefferson was a brilliant thinker and a passionate advocate for human rights.

Jefferson's legacy is still debated today. But there is no doubt that he was one of the most important figures in American history. He is a Founding Father who helped to create the United States, and his ideas continue to inspire people all over the world.

Thomas Jefferson: Author of America (Eminent Lives)

by Christopher Hitchens

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	829 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

FREE