10 fun and interesting Thomas Jefferson facts

1. Third President of the United States

On April 13, 1743, Thomas Jefferson was born in Shadwell, Virginia, a small town located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. He was the third of eight children born to Peter and Jane Randolph Jefferson, and his father was a successful planter and surveyor. Jefferson's early education was provided by his father, and he later attended the College of William & Mary. He went on to become one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, and served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809.

Also → William and Mary: The Second Oldest College in the United States

2. Young TJ's Journey of Knowledge Begins

At the tender age of 16, Thomas Jefferson set off on a journey of knowledge and discovery. He left his home in 1760 to attend the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia's capital. Before his departure, Jefferson had already acquired a wealth of knowledge from Reverend James Maury, who had been his teacher since the age of nine. Jefferson was determined to make the most of his college experience, and he did just that, graduating with highest honors in 1762. His time at the College of William and Mary would prove to be invaluable, as it laid the foundation for his future successes.

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3. Young Jefferson: America's Brilliant Lawyer at 24

At the young age of 24, Thomas Jefferson was admitted to the Virginia bar in 1767, quickly becoming one of the most knowledgeable lawyers in the United States. His impressive legal acumen was evident even at such a young age, and he quickly established himself as a formidable presence in the American legal system.

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4. The Radical Who Led America's First Revolution

In 1768, Thomas Jefferson was elected to the Virginia House of Burgesses, where he joined a radical bloc led by the likes of Patrick Henry and George Washington. This bloc was active from 1769 to 1774, and Jefferson was an integral part of it, working alongside two of the most influential figures in American history.

Also → James Madison: Fourth President of the United States

5. Key Figure in American Revolution

At the Second Continental Congress in 1775-76, Thomas Jefferson was a key figure in the creation of the Continental Army, and was appointed its commander-in-chief. His leadership was instrumental in the formation of the army, which would go on to play a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War.

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6. A Leader in Virginia and the United States

After authoring the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson returned to his home state of Virginia, where he served as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 1776 to 1779. During this time, he was responsible for introducing a number of reforms, including the establishment of religious freedom and the abolition of primogeniture, which allowed for the equal division of land among all heirs. He also worked to improve the state's educational system, introducing a bill that established the University of Virginia. His efforts in the House of Delegates helped to shape the future of the state and the nation.

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7. A Prominent Figure in American History

Thomas Jefferson was a prominent figure in American history, serving as the Governor of Virginia from 1779 to 1781 and then as the Minister to France from 1785 to 1789. During his time as Governor, Jefferson was responsible for overseeing the state's military operations during the Revolutionary War, while his tenure as Minister to France saw him negotiating the Louisiana Purchase, a landmark event in American history.

Also → John Tyler: 10th US President (1790)

8. Third President Who Made a Difference

On March 4, 1801, Thomas Jefferson was sworn in as the third President of the United States. His presidency was marked by a commitment to reducing the federal budget and returning power to the states, as well as lowering taxes, which made him immensely popular among the American people. His fiscal policies were a major factor in the success of his presidency, and his legacy continues to be felt today.

Also → James Monroe: From Law Student to Statesman

9. Thomas Jefferson's Successful Neutrality in the Napoleonic Wars

During his second term as President, Thomas Jefferson worked tirelessly to ensure the United States remained neutral in the Napoleonic Wars raging in Europe. He sought to protect the nation from the devastating effects of war, while also preserving the nation's sovereignty and independence. Jefferson's efforts were successful, and the United States was able to remain out of the conflict, allowing it to continue to grow and develop without the disruption of war.

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10. A Revolutionary Founding Father

On July 4, 1826, Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, passed away at his beloved home of Monticello in Virginia. His death marked the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which he had written and signed in 1776. Jefferson was a major figure in the American Revolution and was instrumental in the formation of the United States. He was a Founding Father, a statesman, an inventor, and a philosopher. His legacy lives on in the many monuments, memorials, and institutions that bear his name.