Thomas Jefferson

(1743 - 1826 )

Who was Thomas Jefferson ?

    Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia the son of a planter. In 1762 he graduated from the College of William and Mary, and studied law. A patriot, he was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and the Continental Congress. He drafted the Delcaration of Independence. In 1785 he became the Minister to France, and Secretary of State under Washington. Joining with the Republican party, he fought for states' rights.

    As President, Thomas Jefferson sought to improve the nation and create a smaller federal government. He cut the federal budget, and tried to avoid foreign problems. The offering of the Louisiana Territory was something he could not refuse, despite the fact the Constitution did not give the President power to acquire new land.

Thomas Jefferson

(1743 - 1826 )

Who was Thomas Jefferson ?

    Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia the son of a planter. In 1762 he graduated from the College of William and Mary, and studied law. A patriot, he was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and the Continental Congress. He drafted the Delcaration of Independence. In 1785 he became the Minister to France, and Secretary of State under Washington. Joining with the Republican party, he fought for states' rights.

    As President, Thomas Jefferson sought to improve the nation and create a smaller federal government. He cut the federal budget, and tried to avoid foreign problems. The offering of the Louisiana Territory was something he could not refuse, despite the fact the Constitution did not give the President power to acquire new land.