The Real Thomas Jefferson »

The Real Thomas Jefferson: The True Story of America's Philosopher of Freedom

Jefferson is the central figure in American history, and he may yet prove to be the central figure in modern history. So stated noted historian Henry Steele Commager. And as the English novelist Samuel Butler once wrote, Though God cannot alter the past, historians can. His observation is especially applicable to our changing perceptions of great historical personalities, most of whom are relentlessly reinterpreted by each new generation of biographers. It is doubtful whether many of these renowned characters of yesteryear would even recognize themselves in some of the publications devoted to them today.

There is no better example of this kind of metamorphosis than Thomas Jefferson, author of the American Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States. Since his death in 1826 he has been alternately vilified and deified in numerous forms by writers of varying motivations. In The Real Thomas Jefferson, by allowing Jefferson to explain his life and ideas in his own words, we have tried to ensure that his spirit, not ours, will breathe in these pages- -so that all who read them will become acquainted with Jefferson himself, not another second-hand interpretation of him. His biography appears in Part I, and Part II brings together the most insightful passages from his writings, arranged by subject.

Illustrations vii

Preface ix

Acknowledgments xiii

Biographical Highlights Thomas Jefferson xiv

Part I Thomas Jefferson: Champion of Liberty 1

1 "If He Were Here We Might Rebuild..." 3

2 "An Inquisitive Youth" 11

3 College Days 19

4 The Law, Monticello, and Martha 33

5 "The Reputation of a Masterly Pen" 45

6 The Declaration of Independence 59

7 Laying a Foundation for Free Government 73

8 Wartime Governor of Virginia 91

9 Rising Above Tragedy 103

10 American Minister to France 117

11 A New Era Dawns on Two Continents 137

12 First Secretary of State 151

13 Jefferson Versus Hamilton 161

14 "My Family, My Farm, and My Books" 173

15 Statesman and Scientist 191

16 "An Awful Crisis" 201

17 President of the United States 215

18 A Season of Slander 227

19 Public Achievements and Private Adversity 237

20 "A Splendid Misery" 247

21 "I Return to the People" 269

22 The Sage of Monticello 277

23 "The Hand of Age Is Upon Me" 295

24 "I Have Done for My Country ... All That I Could Do" 311

Appendix An Intimate View of Jefferson by His Grandson 319

Part II Timeless Treasures From Thomas Jefferson 335

A compilation of the most important passages from Jefferson's writings, arranged alphabetically by subject matter. See pages 337-38 for a brief introduction and a note on sources.

Bibliography 665

Index 667