Unit 2: Chapter 4: Biography

Thomas Jefferson
1743 – 1826

Thomas Jefferson loved reading and exploring nature as a child. Later Jefferson became a farmer, a scholar and a politician. He is best remembered today as the third United States President. However, Jefferson did a great deal more than that.

In 1776, Jefferson wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence. He was later elected governor of Virginia and served in the United States Congress. Jefferson also helped develop the western part of the United States. His curiosity about North America made him send Lewis and Clark into the West to explore.

Jefferson’s greatest love was learning. He founded the University of Virginia. He read everything he could find on science, math, history and other subjects. He once wrote, “I cannot live without books.”

Take a Closer Look

Louisiana Purchase
Thomas Jefferson doubled the size of the United States overnight with the purchase of the Louisiana Territory. The purchase also freed the French from their war debt. Purchasing this land was one of Jefferson’s greatest contributions to America.

Into the West
The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial commemorates the exploration and settlement of the American West during the 19th century. The memorial is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River. It includes the Gateway Arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion and the Old Courthouse.

Advice for the Journey
Read the advice that Thomas Jefferson offered explorer Meriwether Lewis before he set out on his famous expedition. Jefferson urged Lewis to take careful notes. He also told Lewis to become acquainted with the Native American people he would meet along the way.