Thomas Jefferson Outline

4 Pages 961 Words

THOMAS JEFFERSON
Thomas Jefferson’s life and political accomplishments.
I. The early years:
A. on April 13, 1743 Thomas Jefferson was born.
Born to Peter and Jane Randolph Jefferson.
Born in Shadwell
B. Received private tutoring from age 5
Intensive tutoring in Greek and Latin.
Smattering of French and some contact with English Classics.
Heavy dose of religion
C. In 1760 attended the college of William and Mary in Williamsburg.
Spent two years in college ending in 1762.
Took bar examination in 1767.

II. Jefferson and the American Revolution:
A. approved the revolution
New motto for Jefferson “Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God.”
A Summary View of the Rights of British America- attack by Jefferson on the British tyranny. Stopped short of actually proposing a revolution.
“Kings are the servants not the proprietors of the people.”

B. became involved in politics
1769, Jefferson elected as member of the House of Burgesses.
June 1775 sent as one of Virginia’s delegate to the second continental congress.
1779 became governor replacing Patrick Henry
Vowed not to be involved in government in 1782 after the death of his wife.
C. Major contributions, political and social
Entrusted with drafting important papers such as, the rejection of a proposal of conciliation from Great Britain’s Prime minister.
Starting June 11th and for 2 weeks Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence.
Upon returning to Virginia he launched a comprehensive effort to bring new states laws and institutions into conformity with republican principles and natural rights.
Proposed the abolition of entail and primogeniture.
Drafted a bill for establishing religious freedom in Virginia and advocated the separation of church and state. Bill enacted in 1786.
Advocated education , proposed education and had a plan for it however only parts of it were accepted by the State of Virginia.
III. Jefferson a...