Thomas

Jefferson

1743 — 1826

Thomas Jefferson was an American statesman, diplomat, lawyer, architect, philosopher, and Founding Father who served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809. He is best known for his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, which declared the American colonies' independence from Great Britain.

Jefferson was also a strong advocate for democracy, individual rights, and religious freedom. He played a key role in the formation of the United States, serving as a delegate to the Continental Congress and as the first Secretary of State under President George Washington.

Despite his many accomplishments, Jefferson's legacy is clouded by his ownership of slaves, which he inherited from his father and also acquired through his marriage to Martha Wayles Skelton. Although he spoke out against slavery and advocated for its abolition, he never freed his own slaves and his views on race were often contradictory.