“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Simply put, this famous quote from Thomas Jefferson epitomizes the fundamental ideas that he strived to implement throughout his life. His belief in the equality of man set the stage for his tremendous endeavors. A myriad of educational, philosophical, religious, and historical influences greatly affected Thomas Jefferson. These influences inspired him to write the Declaration of Independence, pursue the governorship of Virginia, complete the Louisiana Purchase, order the Lewis & Clark expedition, and establish his legacy as one of the most admired and effective politicians in the history of the United States. The early life of Thomas Jefferson marks the beginning of his venture into the world of higher education and politics. He was born on April 13, 1743, to Peter and Jane Jefferson. They lived a modest life in Shadwell, Virginia, where his father was a prominent colonist and surveyor.
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In 1774, Jefferson could not attend the first Virginia Convention to select members for the First Continental Congress. Instead, he gave the delegates a set of instructions and ideas titled, “A Summary View of the Rights of British America.” At the convention, Jefferson’s ideas were surprisingly rejected as too extreme. However, his writings established his reputation as an excellent writer. Subsequently, he was appointed to the committee responsible for writing the Declaration of Independance. Once there, Jefferson integrated his beliefs of natural rights and human equality into the document (“Thomas Jefferson” 2). Overall, Jefferson took great pride in his work, which he thought of as an appeal to humanity’s sense of justice (Meltzer
In 1774, Jefferson could not attend the first Virginia Convention to select members for the First Continental Congress. Instead, he gave the delegates a set of instructions and ideas titled, “A Summary View of the Rights of British America.” At the convention, Jefferson’s ideas were surprisingly rejected as too extreme. However, his writings established his reputation as an excellent writer. Subsequently, he was appointed to the committee responsible for writing the Declaration of Independance. Once there, Jefferson integrated his beliefs of natural rights and human equality into the document (“Thomas Jefferson” 2). Overall, Jefferson took great pride in his work, which he thought of as an appeal to humanity’s sense of justice (Meltzer