Thomas Jefferson is well known for writing the
Declaration of Independence, which was intended to be an
expression of the American mind since he had the ability to
synthesize the words of others. He was admitted to the Bar
in 1777 and then later was also elected to the House of
Burgesses and also became governor of Virginia during the
Revolution. Later he was asked to be Treaty Commissioner
to France and American Administer to France. During his
presidency he acquired the Louisiana Purchase for America.
Soon after, he founded the University of Virginia.
Throughout his life he counseled other leaders such as
Madison and Monroe, along with French leaders in his time
across seas. A great man who was our countries first
Secretary of State and third President.
Throughout his life Jefferson was criticized for having
slaves himself, yet still fighting to prohibit foreign
slave trade. He introduced a law the would illegalize slave
trade in the constitution, yet it was opposed by both
the North and the South. When British Navy began knocking
off American ships, Jefferson’s decision to cease trade
with other countries caused the first economical downfall
of the new country.
Later when it came to a vote
on antislavery after 1800, it was again defeated by one
vote. While he was serving as Governor of Virginia the
legislature was driven from the state and he himself was
driven from his home by the British. Finally, his drafted
Bill for public education which stated that “No other sure
foundation can be devised for the preservation of freedom
and happiness” was defeated.