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Thomas Jefferson

Definition

Thomas Jefferson was an American Founding Father who served as the third President of the United States (1801–1809). He is also known for writing the Declaration of Independence.

Analogy

Consider Thomas Jefferson like your school's valedictorian - not only does he excel academically (like drafting important documents), but he also takes on leadership roles (like being president).

Related terms

Louisiana Purchase: A significant land deal between France and US during Jefferson’s presidency that doubled size of US territory.

Democratic-Republican Party: Political party founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison opposing policies of Federalists; it favored states' rights over centralized power.

Lewis & Clark Expedition: An expedition commissioned by President Jefferson after Louisiana Purchase to explore newly acquired western territories.

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Practice Questions (12)

  • What role did Thomas Jefferson play in the cabinet of George Washington?
  • What could be a potential consequence if Thomas Jefferson had failed to secure Louisiana Purchase?
  • How did Thomas Jefferson's and Alexander Hamilton's views on federal government authority differ during Washington's presidency?
  • How was Thomas Jefferson’s role in drafting the Declaration of Independence different from John Adams' role?
  • What impact could Thomas Jefferson’s decision not to include a denunciation of the slave trade in the final version of The Declaration Of Independence have had on early society?
  • What distinguishes the ideas of Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson regarding the economic direction of the early United States?
  • What was one key difference between the foreign policies of Thomas Jefferson and William McKinley?
  • How did Thomas Jefferson's and Alexander Hamilton's views differ regarding federal power?
  • What was a significant cause of conflict between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton regarding the U.S.'s early economic policy?
  • How did Alexander Hamilton's view on government role differ from Thomas Jefferson's perspective?
  • How did the economic policies of Alexander Hamilton differ from those of Thomas Jefferson during their time in office?
  • What document did Thomas Jefferson write declaring America's independence from Great Britain?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.