Thomas Jefferson Research Paper

As a wise professor once told his class about a Lincoln's biographer, "I went to bed with Mr. Lincoln every night for . . ." I also choose carefully the person for my thoughts as Thomas Jefferson. The author of the declaration of independence, a great statesman, an aristocratic diplomat, a Virginia nationalist, a philosopher, a scientist, an architect, a plantation and slave owner, this multi faced personality is as intriguing as meaning of being an American itself. Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia colony on April 13, 1743. He was the third child and eldest son of Peter Jefferson and Jane Randolph. His father was a surveyor a map maker, a magistrate and a member of the Virginia House of Burgess. His mother's aristocratic background assured mild manners and social standing. Young Thomas
He went on hikes and horse back rides to explore the vast Virginia wilderness, and kept records of his discoveries. At age fourteen Jefferson's father passed away, he received the largest inheritance including his father's many books, desk and mathematical instruments. By age twentyone, he acquired his full inheritance including 2,500 acres of land and several slaves. For next two years he went to school locally, but his quench for knowledge pushed him to enroll at the college of William and Mary, in Williamsburg, Virginia. His mind flourished tremendously while living in Williamsburg's active political and social scene. After graduation he became a lawyer's assistant, and five years later took the bar exam. This was a period of great unease in Colonial America due to the Sugar Act of 1764 and the Stamp Act of 1765. In 1768 Jefferson was elected to the House of Burgess, thus the the beginning of a life long public service. Although Thomas was very involved in Williamsburg, his love for country kept taking him back to Shad well. In 1769 he began to build his home on a mountain top and called it Monticello, the little