Thomas Jefferson

1743–1826 · American (Virginia) · American Revolution / Early Republic

Known for: Author of the Declaration of Independence, third President, founder of the University of Virginia—and enslaver of 600+ people

Jefferson wrote 'All men are created equal' while owning over 600 enslaved people—the central contradiction of American history embodied in one man. He was a polymath: architect (Monticello, UVA), scientist, inventor, linguist, diplomat, and the most eloquent writer among the Founders.

As president (1801–1809), he completed the Louisiana Purchase (doubling the nation's size), sent Lewis and Clark west, and reduced federal power—while also exceeding executive authority when it suited him. He founded the University of Virginia and designed its campus.

He died on July 4, 1826—the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—within hours of his rival-turned-friend John Adams. His last words were reportedly 'Is it the Fourth?'

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