Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, serving from 1801 to 1809. He was a key figure in the early history of the United States and is known for his role in writing the Declaration of Independence, as well as for his efforts to expand the country through the Louisiana Purchase.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. He was the third of ten children in his family. He attended the College of William and Mary, where he studied law and was influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment, which emphasized reason, science, and individual rights.

Political Career

Jefferson was a prominent figure in the early years of the United States. He served as the Governor of Virginia, a delegate to the Continental Congress, and as the Minister to France. He was also the first Secretary of State under President George Washington.

Presidency

Jefferson was elected as the third President of the United States in 1800. His presidency was marked by several significant events, including the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the country, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which explored the newly acquired territory.

Legacy

Thomas Jefferson is remembered for his contributions to the founding of the United States, including his role in writing the Declaration of Independence and his advocacy for religious freedom and education. He is also known for his support of agriculture and his vision of an agrarian society.

Study Guide

When was Thomas Jefferson born?
What college did Thomas Jefferson attend?
What significant event marked Jefferson's presidency?
What are some of Thomas Jefferson's contributions to the founding of the United States?

Feel free to use this study guide to help you review and remember key information about Thomas Jefferson!

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Fourth Grade. American Landmarks

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

PEOPLE, PLACES, AND ENVIRONMENTS

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF PEOPLE, PLACES, AND ENVIRONMENTS.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Physical and human characteristics of the school, community, state, and region, and the interactions of people in these places with the environment.

National Standards for Civics and Government (NSCG)

What are the Basic Values and Principles of American Democracy? Why is it important for Americans to share certain values, principles, and beliefs?

American identity: Students should be able to explain the importance of Americans sharing and supporting certain values, principles, and beliefs. To achieve this standard, students should be able to

Identify symbols used to depict Americans’ shared values, principles, and beliefs and explain their meaning, e.g., the flag, Statue of Liberty, Statue of Justice, Uncle Sam, Great Seal, national anthem, oaths of office, and mottoes such as E Pluribus Unum

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Topic 3: The History of the United States: Democratic Principles and Values and the People from Many Cultures Who Contributed to Its Cultural, Economic, and Political Heritage

How democratic values came to be, and how they have been exemplified by people, events, and symbols.

The student understands national symbols through which American values and principles are expressed.