Presidential Biographies | Jefferson Administrations - Introduction

Introduction

Thomas Jefferson, the son of a Virginia planter family, was one of the principal builders of the American Republic. He is best remembered as the author of the Declaration of Independence, which he based on the principle that humanity is entitled to government that does not interfere with life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Jefferson's distinguished service in early U.S. government included five years as secretary of state under George Washington, four years as vice president under John Adams, and eight years as president, during which he usually remained loyal to the republican principles he promoted in his writings. Jefferson was the leader of his party even after retiring from the presidency to his home in Virginia.