Reading Thomas Jefferson

Who is the real Thomas Jefferson? Is he the champion of "natural rights" or "human rights"? Did he believe that "all men are created equal"? Was Jefferson an anti-slavery ideologue or a racist plantation owner? Was he committed to limited government and the Constitution or was he a political hypocrite?

These are just a few of the questions surrounding the life and times of the second most important "Founding Father." Jefferson wrote volumes to friends and foe alike, to those who shared his principles and those who viewed him with suspicion. He was also a public figure with several high profile public documents, several of which are considered essential reading on the founding of the United States.

This class covers 15 of the most important public and private Jefferson documents, including his Summary View, his arguments against the Bank of the United States, and his Kentucky Resolutions. You will have a deeper understanding and appreciation for the man once you finish this course. You'll also understand the cogency of Jefferson's thoughts over a fifty year period, from his early 30s to his 80s.

You must understand Jefferson to understand America.