Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was born in 1743 in Shadwell, Virginia. A polymath — architect, inventor, philosopher, musician, and farmer — he is best known as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence at age 33.

After serving as the first Secretary of State, Vice President under Adams, and founder of the Democratic-Republican Party, Jefferson won the presidency in the bitterly contested election of 1800 — called the "Revolution of 1800" for its peaceful transfer of power between opposing parties.

His presidency was defined by the Louisiana Purchase (1803), which doubled the size of the United States for $15 million (about 3 cents per acre), and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the new territory. He also signed the Act Prohibiting Importation of Slaves (1807).

Jefferson founded the University of Virginia after leaving office and designed its campus. He died on July 4, 1826, the same day as John Adams. His epitaph, which he wrote himself, mentions founding the University of Virginia and writing the Declaration — but not his presidency.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

“The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.”

“An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.”