GOV 25.33 Founding Father: Thomas Jefferson

“We are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate any error so long as reason is left free to combat it.”

“Enlighten the people generally, and tyranny and oppressions of body and mind will vanish like evil spirits at the dawn of day.”

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

Contents

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Jefferson’s Pursuit of Knowledge

As a young man in Virginia, Thomas Jefferson pursues an education based on the ideals of the Enlightenment.

Jefferson’s Pursuit of Knowledge

Jefferson Challenges the King

Thomas Jefferson is known for penning The Declaration of Independence, but some of his earlier writings establish the pattern of challenging the British monarchy.

Jefferson Challenges the King

Who Was Sally Hemings?

Thomas Jefferson had a relationship and fathered several children with one of his slaves, Sally Hemings.

Who Was Sally Hemings?