Thomas Jefferson: Fun Facts, Quotes & Trivia


A Brief Biography of Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson is one the most important founders of the United States and served as the country's third president. Mr. Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743 in Virginia. As a child, he followed a classical studies curriculum until his father died in 1757. At the age of fourteen, a young Thomas Jefferson inherited thousands of acres and a number of slaves from his father. Between 1760 and 1767, he graduated with honors from William and Mary College and was admitted to the Virginia Bar Association. Mr. Jefferson voraciously read books from a wide variety of subjects including mathematics and philosophy, which prepared him for the central role that he occupied in early American life, including the writing of the Declaration of Independence.

As the American colonies advanced towards revolution, Jefferson served in the Second Continental Congress when it convened in June of 1775. At this convention, he was selected, along with a few other men, to write a draft of the Declaration. After presenting his draft to the convention and eventually to Congress, Jefferson's version was eventually approved. Despite heated debates and a few edits, the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. The document still stands as one of the preeminent statements on human rights and formed the basis for democratic movements worldwide.

After writing the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson remained active in political life. He returned home to Virginia and served as a state legislator for a few years. As a legislator, Jefferson was extremely effective. He passed a bill stopping the importation of slaves among many others. Mr. Jefferson was elected to serve as governor in 1779. While governor, he oversaw the move of the state capital to Richmond and founded the University of Virginia. After the British invasion of the state was eventually quashed, Mr. Jefferson was appointed to serve in the United States Congress by the state legislature.

Mr. Jefferson's political career reached its height during this period. He served as a congressman, Minister to France, Secretary of State, and Vice-President. After serving these positions with distinction, Thomas Jefferson won the race for the presidency in 1800. He served two terms during which he brokered the Louisiana Purchase and banned the importation of slaves into the United States.

Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826. He left behind a long legacy of successes that helped to establish and maintain a fledgling nation. His legacy endures.

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bhom on May 11, 2010
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kabecker on November 02, 2010
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