What do most people think of when they hear the name Thomas Jefferson? Most people probably think of him as the third president of the United States or as the writer of the Declaration of Independence. But do they know that he knew more than one language and played the violin? Jefferson had many great intellectual accomplishments.
Although at times in his life he was in debt, Jefferson always found enough money to buy books. He mastered Latin as well as Greek, and played the violin. After attending college in Williamsburg, Jefferson began to study fifteen hours a day so that he might become a lawyer. He drew plans for a house which he called Monticello, and built it himself. In politics he rose to President of the United States, even though, as George Washington had been, he was reluctant to take office. As president he purchased the Louisiana Territory from France, a farsighted and brilliant idea. Jefferson limited himself to two terms as Washington had also done, in order to insure the freedom of the people. He established the University of Virginia because he thought that education helped democracy, and even designed the building himself.
Author, scientist, lawyer, philosopher, farmer, architect, politician.
All of these adjectives, and most likely a great many more, can be
used to describe Thomas Jefferson.
During his lifetime, Jefferson had many great personal achievements.
Most importantly, however, he left a lasting impression on our
country, one which will forever effect the past, present, and future
of the United States of America.
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