Born April 13, 1743
Shadwell, Virginia
Died July 4, 1826
Charlottesville, Virginia

President and vice president of the United States, lawyer, philosopher, writer

"My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy. I confess I had no idea of it myself."
—Jefferson's comment after observing poverty and inequality while touring in Europe
Portrait: Thomas Jefferson. Reproduced courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Thomas Jefferson was a brilliant man with broad-ranging interests who greatly influenced the political and intellectual life of America. His gift for language made him the most eloquent leader of the American Revolution. His vision for America helped make him one of its most respected presidents.

Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, to Peter Jefferson, a pioneer farmer and surveyor, and his wife, Jane Randolph Jefferson. The family was not wealthy, but Jeffer...