Product Description
No golden eagle, warm from the stamping press of the mint, is more sharply impressed with its image and superscription than was the formative period of our government by the genius and personality of Thomas Jefferson.Standing on the threshold of the nineteenth century, no one who attempted to peer down the shadowy vista, saw more clearly than he the possibilities, the perils, the pitfalls and the achievements that were within the grasp of the Nation. None was inspired by purer patriotism. None was more sagacious, wise and prudent, and none understood his countrymen better.By birth an aristocrat, by nature he was a democrat. The most learned man that ever sat in the president's chair, his tastes were the simple ones of a farmer. Surrounded by the pomp and ceremony of Washington and Adams' courts, his dress was homely. He despised titles, and preferred severe plainness of speech and the sober garb of the Quakers. ... Read more

Product Description
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the third President of the United States (1801-09), the principal author of the Declaration of Independence (1776), and one of the most influential Founding Fathers for his promotion of the ideals of Republicanism in the United States. "The opinion universally entertained of the extraordinary abilities of Thomas Jefferson, and the signal evidence given by his country, of a profound sense of his patriotic services, and of veneration for his memory, have induced the Editor, who is both his Executor and the Legatee of his Manuscript Papers, to believe that an extensive publication from them would be particularly acceptable to the American people." ... Read more

Product Description
The book has no illustrations or index. Purchasers are entitled to a free trial membership in the General Books Club where they can select from more than a million books without charge. Subjects: United States; Biography ... Read more

Product Description
The book has no illustrations or index. Purchasers are entitled to a free trial membership in the General Books Club where they can select from more than a million books without charge. Subjects: United States; Biography ... Read more

Product Description
The book has no illustrations or index. Purchasers are entitled to a free trial membership in the General Books Club where they can select from more than a million books without charge. Subjects: United States; Biography ... Read more

Product Description
Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, the main author of the Declaration of Independence, and one of the most influential Founding Fathers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Comments on the Reviews of the Jefferson Autobiography
Being about to order the Thomas Jefferson autobiography from you, I carefully read all of the reviews you have printed as well as the sample pages.If these samples convey the flavor of his book I expect to enjoy it.I'm widely read about TJ and do not feel I need any further discussion of his personal life.His early 19th century style of writing poses no problem for me.The question of his life with Sally has been adequately settled and so forth.But his vivid description of the day the French stormed the Bastile makes me eager to read the whole book.I gather that he wrote about those aspects of his career that he deemed important.I expect to be delighted to read of these things from his perspective.I thank you for making this important autobiography available.

Jefferson in his own words.
If one truly wants to know what our Founding Fathers actually said about themselves it is best to read it in their own words.You will quickly find that they had a deeper relationship with the Creator than is popularly reported in modern times - even Thomas Jefferson.Benjamin Franklin's autobiography is replete with thankful references to God for the blessings on his life.

For those interested in true American history, I recommend this as well as Benjamin Franklin's autobiography.

Leaves out way too much
This book tells little of the greatness of Jefferson. Perhaps he was just too humble to tell us his story, which is a grand disappointment.

Our History
This was a small, interesting book, but I found it a difficult read, due to the language used back then.Very different from today's speech. I was rather disappointed that it did not include some of his earlier life.

Short, and inside perspective
Written in 1821, TJ writes very quickly about his parents, childhood, and the time period before the revolution and spends way more time on the declaration of independence, articles of confederation, his presidency and the early 1800s.

He does include an original draft of the declaration of independence which is neat. And his section on the articles of confederation shows the many problems the states had to deal with upon becoming independent.

While Bill Clinton's autobiography was way too long, this autobio was way too short.

But the perspective is one that the history books do not often show you. ... Read more

Product Description
Thomas Jefferson designed his own tombstone, describing himself simply as "Author of the Declaration of Independence and of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and Father of the University of Virginia." It is in this simple epitaph that R.B. Bernstein finds the key to this enigmatic Founder--not as a great political figure, but as leader of "a revolution of ideas that would make the world over again." In Thomas Jefferson, Bernstein offers the definitive short biography of this revered American--the first concise life in six decades.Bernstein deftly synthesizes the massive scholarship on his subject into a swift, insightful, evenhanded account.Here are all of Jefferson's triumphs, contradictions, and failings, from his luxurious (and debt-burdened) life as a Virginia gentleman to his passionate belief in democracy, from his tortured defense of slavery to his relationship with Sally Hemings. Jefferson was indeed multifaceted--an architect, inventor, writer, diplomat, propagandist, planter, party leader--and Bernstein explores all these roles even as he illuminates Jefferson's central place in the American enlightenment, that "revolution of ideas" that did so much to create the nation we know today. Together with the less well-remembered points in Jefferson's thinking--the nature of the Union, his vision of who was entitled to citizenship, his dread of debt (both personal and national)--they form the heart of this lively biography.In this marvel of compression and comprehension, we see Jefferson more clearly than in the massive studies of earlier generations. More important, we see, in Jefferson's visionary ideas, the birth of the nation's grand sense of purpose. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (48)

There must be better Jefferson biography out there
Bought this book based on the reviews here.Enjoyed the book. But as some other reviewers said, it's not a page turner. The writing... is just ok. Having read the Founding Brothers (highly recommend it), this book somehow doesn't provide the richness in writing or in content.

Revolutionary Enigma
Well written. Well organized. Enjoyed this read very much.

Learned several things about the period and Jefferson's role in it. Learned very little about the man. This is a brief recounting focusing on Jefferson's political life. Despite the fact that the man wrote literally 1000s of letters, Jefferson remains one of the most, er, "hidden" figures in American History from a personal standpoint.

Bernstein acknowledges this with his closing paragraph in the book:

"...whether he would even comprehend the United States in the first years of the twenty-first century, Jefferson's shadow looms large over us, thanks to the conflicting influences of his thinking, doing, and - most important - his writing. That truth alone requires each generation to reacquaint itself with the life and work of Thomas Jefferson, and to grapple with his ambiguous legacies."

If you are lookin' for a brief catalog of important events driven or influenced by our third president, this is a book fabulous for that purpose.

If you are lookin' for an indepth character evaluation and to learn more about the man himself, you'll need to look elsewhere. Good luck with that. From what I've been able to determine such a book does not exist. I have come to the conclusion that it never will.

The great enigma of the Revolutionary period. Thomas Jefferson.

Jefferson Lite
When Dumas Malone wrote Jefferson's biography, it took him six volumes at about 500 pages a pop. Bernstein does it in a single volume with a mere 200 pages. Clearly, some detail is missing, but for what it is, "Thomas Jefferson" gives a lot of bang. Bernstein outlined the work using the three accomplishments Jefferson requested to have listed as his epitaph: author of the Declaration of Independence, author of a statute of religious rights, and father of the University of Virginia.

Bernstein highlights these accomplishments and couches their significance in descriptions of the culture, economics, and political climate of the time. A number of Jefferson's achievements get glossed over in the process. His eight years as president, for example, fly by in about eight pages.

For a short book on a long subject, however, Bernstein performs admirably. I strongly recommend it for readers who want to learn about Jefferson, but don't want to learn everything about him.

Society's patterns are rooted in history.
If you're curious about Thomas Jefferson the man and the nation he helped to create, then I strongly recommend this book. It gives a reasonable picture of the mindset of 18th century American intellectuals who were greatly influence by Enlightenment thinking.Jefferson responded strongly to Enlightenment ideals as he struggled to forge his identity as a Patriot and as a Southern gentleman.

Alas, he was unable to find a practical way of fusing those ideals with the republican system he helped to create. The result is the acrimonious political system of modern America.

excellent introduction to Jefferson
This book is concise and easy to read, which is important to maintain the reader's interest. You'll learn many things about Jefferson that you didn't know, especially his nuanced feelings about slavery. What's most interesting is the often overlooked time Jefferson spent in Europe. Understanding this period of Jefferson's life is crucial to understanding his sympathy for the French Revolution, which was one of a couple of major points of contention between Jefferson and Hamilton. (By the way, the Jeffersonians and Hamiltonians were the first major political divide in America.)

Bernstein achieves what is very difficult: withhold judgment on Jefferson and let the facts speak for themselves. After reading several books about the Founders, I've found that Jefferson is an idealist to a fault and much too faithful in the goodness of men. Also, his determination not to choose sides between the French and British was one of a series of mistakes made by Presidents Adams through Madison that left America open to attack from the British in 1812.

My only complaint of this book is that the chapter on Jefferson's second term in office is rather brief. Besides that, it is pleasantly informative and balanced. ... Read more

Product Description
Is American education preparing the future leaders our nation needs, or merely struggling to teach basic literacy and job skills? Without leadership education, are we settling for an inadequate system that delivers educational, industrial, governmental and societal mediocrity? In A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the Twenty-first Century, Oliver DeMille presents a new educational vision based on proven methods that really work! Teachers, students, parents, educators, legislators, leaders and everyone who cares about America's future must read this compelling book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (43)

It came damaged but Amazon was great!
I ended up getting a copy that was missing the first 10 pages. I'm not quite sure what happened, but Amazon paid for me to return it and gave me a refund with minimal hastle. I am eager to read this book since it came highly recommended to me by my mom who LOVED it.

questionable
When I first read this book, I got really excited about the concept.I can just educate myself and in the meantime my children will be inspired to educate themselves, without me every having to require them to do anything?

A Thomas Jefferson Education could be retitled "Unschooling In Disguise" because it's all about parents "inspiring" their kids to educate themselves but never actually teaching them anything.

Was Thomas Jefferson really educated in this manner?If you do your own research, instead of just blindly trusting DeMille, you might find that in reality Thomas Jefferson received a mandatory classical education, not this "inspire, not require" and focus on "you, not them" stuff that DeMille preaches.

If you are passionate about unschooling, that's fine, but let's not pretend that this vein of unschooling is how Thomas Jefferson was educated.

DeMille lists Joan of Arc as one of the great leaders in history who received A Thomas Jefferson Education.In reality, we know very little about Joan of Arc and she was likely not even literate.

He also lists George Washington as one of the great leaders in history who received A Thomas Jefferson Education.The truth is that George Washington was not very well read.

Most of the other "leaders" he lists (Abraham Lincoln, John Locke, etc.) did not have a mentor in the sense that DeMille defines one.

Where did DeMille get the idea that all the great leaders were educated using classics and mentors?I'm not sure.

DeMille advocates children learning math by reading Isaac Newton's writings.I am a certified math teacher and I don't think this makes any sense.First of all, just because someone invented calculus doesn't mean he is going to be the best teacher of it.Second of all, notation has changed so much in 350 years that even if a student is able to read and digest Newton, he will not be able to function in modern day math situations (using Excel or Maple or other math software, reading math journals, etc.)

The learning phases he discusses (Core, Love of Learning, Scholar, etc.) are adaptation of Freud's Stages of Psychosexual Development.They have not been around throughout history.

These are just some of the many problems in this book.

I love the idea of a homeschool curriculum including the reading of lots of classics, and I appreciated the list of classics in the back of this book, which is why I'm rating it 2 stars instead of 1 star.

If you decide to read this book, I urge you to also read the blog Why I Don't Do TJEd so you can get a well-rounded picture.

A Thomas Jefferson Education....Fabulous!
A wonderful wakeup call to the mediocrity of education in America.Great ideas, thoughts and challenges.A great read for anyone who is serious about educating their children with classics and mentors.The companion book is a great resource.

I loved it!
I really enjoyed this book.I am definitely going to be reading it again and looking into this more.It is exactly what I have been looking for.

This book rocks!
This book should be required reading for all education majors!!!!!It can and should be undertaken by educators/parents and all those who hope for a brighter future for this country; the type of future that Thomas Jefferson and his peers had in mind when they were forming this country.This is inspiring!

If you enjoy continuing to learn and grow, you will love this book!Pass it on to someone and inspire them, too! ... Read more

Product Description
An unabridged edition of The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth, to include a Table of Texts of Evangelists addressed, and Jefferson's overall religious views by way of correspondence with Dr. Benjamin Rush (1803) followed by a note to Mr. Charles Thompson, with two replicated pages in Jefferson's own handwriting. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (67)

Mr. Jefferson's self-therapy
Of all of Jefferson's achievements and writings, only the Declaration of Independence is more a product of his French / British Enlightenment thinking. Much of the editing of the King James Gospels that produced this condensed & rational version was performed in evenings at the White House, after Jefferson's official duties were complete. I think of it as 'Mr. Jefferson's self-therapy' that kept himsane enough to cope with the pressures of the Presidency.In effect, Jefferson took the 'fundamentalism' out of the gospels while preserving the common decency and ethical content which he considered to be Jesus' virtue as a human spiritual model.

Views from famous writers
If you like Bible studies and the views and thoughts of others regarding the Bible, this is an interesting book. A mere mans thoughts and ideas...
Not to be substituted for the BIBLE tho!!

Jeffereson Bible
I had heard about the Jefferson Bible for some time and it's good that Amazon can provide any title. The book is very interesting. Thomas Jeffereson whittled down the miracles and mysticism and left the basic message. A good book for the open minded

It's what's important.
This covers the essence of what Jesus taught without all the added church dogma that was forced in by those with vested interests.

THE JEFFERSON bIBLE- A WELL-KEPT SECRET
My earliest impression, carefully molded by my old american history
teacher, was that Tom Jefferson was a red-headed heretic who deniedthe existrence of God.What a revelation when I discovered thiswork, which portays the four Christian Gospels in a scholarly study, as "the finast ethical code ever given to mankind.
The fascinating account of how Jefferson edited the stories in english, greek and latin and struggled to have them published within his lifetime.The revelation came as a shock to this 90-year old Methodist, who still cannot comprehend why a work of thisvalue went unnoticed for so long.
Only one greater question remains: Why has the original wisdom of
Jesus been so foolishly ignored- for so very long.And, to paraphrase Rabbi Hillel, "If not now. when?"Yhe indisputable wisdom of the Rule of Reciprocity has been the foundation of ethical codesfrom the beginning of recorded history. Now,Ican comprehend G.B.Shaw's comment: "the only thing wrong with Chritianity is that it has never been practiced!"
I have enjoyed giving this work to many of my freinds who have never known of this inspiring work. There is hope for mankind when we see our finite existence as an opportuniy to serve our fellows. ... Read more

Product Description
Did you know that John Adams had to coax Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence? It's true. The shy Virginia statesman refused at first, but then went on to author one of our nation's most important and inspiring documents. The third U.S. president, Jefferson was also an architect, inventor, musician, farmer, and-what is certainly the most troubling aspect of his life-a slave owner. Finally, here's a biography for kids that unveils the many facets of this founding father's remarkable and complicated life.

Illustrated by John O'Brien. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Jefferson review
By:Andrew "Who was Thomas Jefferson" took place from 1743-1826 in the thirteen original colonies.One thing I liked about the story is that it also told you things that affected his life.Another reason I liked this book is the text tells you about his hobies.Like fossil collecting and inventing.Though you might think his life must of been great, he actualy had many hurtful things happen to him.For example, Thomas lost his wife in 1782 and, when Jefferson was govoner of Virginia he was almost killed by the British.One more terrible thing that happened to him was when he was older, he was 100,000 dollars in debt which is 2,000,000 dollars today.But he was able to pay it off by selling his posessions.Friends and even strangers donated money to help him.In the story they tell you many great things in his life like how he was the third president of the U.S. of America.So Thomas was famous for a veiaty of reasons. yet he also had a more difficult life then you or me that is one thing you'll learn reading this book.

Inaccurate Information in a Children's book is inexcusable
[...]

This author spends five pages reporting on the Jefferson-Hemings controversy and gets it wrong in most instances.

* There is NO proof that Thomas Jefferson's wife and Sally Henings were half sisters as Mr. Fradin claims (see McMurry book, "Anatomy of a Scandal."

* There is NO information anywhere that Jefferson began a relationship with Sally except an unproven claim by Madison Hemings who has been found to be inaccurate on several claims such as his naming.......FALSE. here is also NO proof that Thomas and Sally became fond of each other as Mr. Fradin claims. He also claims a forty year relationship which is unprovable.

* He states that in 1789, Sally Hemings became pregnant and Thomas Jefferson was the father. If Mr. Fradin had cared to research the facts he would have found that the original Callender Campaign Lie of September 1802 was DISPROVEN by the DNA Study. There was NO match of the DNA between Jefferson and Tom Woodson, the subject of the James Callender lie.

* Mr. Fradin says that over the next nineteen years they had six more children. There is absolutely NO proof of this. Not only that, it was over five years after they had returned to Monticello before ANY registered child for Sally was made. Only one Hemings descendant was DNA tested, HOW could Mr. Fradin make his outrageous claims. How can we be sure that his several other children books are accurate? Mr. Fradin your are remiss in distributing false and inaccurate information for our youthful readers.

I recommend that the books listed on the above mentioned web pages be read regarding the Jefferson-Hemings Controversy.

Herbert Barger
Jefferson Family Historian ... Read more

Product Description
The most comprehensive one-volume selection of Jefferson ever published. Contains the "Autobiography," "Notes on the State of Virginia," public and private papers, including the original and revised drafts of the Declaration of Independence, addresses, and 287 letters. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

A glimpse into the mind of Jefferson

First, let me start with my qualifications. I am not a history major, and my knowledge of American history is not where I would like it to be. That being said I'm sad to say that I know more than most people I run into. Sure many people have memorized dates, and can recite historical trends from memory because they had to learn it for some exam. That is not what I'm talking about!! You have to read their words, think about the times they were living in, and hardships they had to endure to give us the freedoms many of us enjoy today.

I am about a hundred pages into this massive volume of Jeffersons works, and it will take me a few years to get through it (I have other interests). However, from what I have read thus far I am very much impressed with it. Jefferson was a very strong personality who walked out on what he believed to be right. We as a nation would do well to elect a man like him into office (if you can find one). This is a man who would have gladly died for what he believed in (no really stop and think about what that means). I doubt you could find one politician in Washington who would do the same today. This is truly a teasure chest of history for those who seek to understand the history not just memorize facts.

The Rural/Pastoral American
Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia was written as a response to François Barbé-Marbois's "inquiry [that] had touched him deeply" (Jefferson xi). Jefferson, after he served as governor of Virginia, spelled out many of his musings vis-à-vis his theory of government, the institutions and infrastructure required by Virginia to flourish, and the appropriate laws for the administration of a society of self-sufficient farmers. It is in this volume that Jefferson first brought to presence several thoughts against slavery. Ironically, as will be explained below, that he was torn between both the world of free slaves and his personal life vis-à-vis Sally Hemings and Monticello.

Jefferson's republicanism was tempered by a sense of gentility. While Franklin above had a more workingman's approach Jefferson's enlightenment argued that, "the ordinary people most often seen by travelers - "tavern keepers, Valet de place, and positions" were "the hackneyed rascals of every country" who "must never be considered when we calculate the national character" (Wood 28). I argue, that despite the disparaging rhetoric, at the very least, attention was already being paid to the common person. Despite the resiliency of monarchy, elitism, and gentility, the move to the individual and his inherent human rights was already starting to form.

First-rate edition of an American classic
Thomas Jefferson is often (and justly) regarded as a consummate politician, but is perhaps less known today for his skillful prose.True, he was very much a man of the Enlightenment, and his writing style is not fashionable today; but it is clear, elegant, and satisfying.This edition brings together several of his best works in an edition which, like all of the volumes in the Library of America series, is well-edited, beautifully printed on good paper, and well bound. Both its contents and its appearance make it a welcome addition to one's library.

Jefferson's Writings: some additional observations
The persons who reviewed this wonderful book have done a fine job.My review intends to point out some aspects of the Writings unmentioned by the other reviewers.

First, Jefferson was a GREAT stylist.He's a delight to read.

Second, in his little Autobiography he shows the Declaration of Independence as he originally wrote it, shows the additions, the major deletions, and the finished product.I was amazed at how he was furious with England for enslaving Africans.The king, says Jefferson's original, "has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating its most sacred rights of life and liberty in the persons of a distant people who never offended him, captivating & carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere...."And even more in that vein.Unfortunately, Congress deleted all that.

Third, his detailed "Notes on the State of Virginia" (good reading) display something of the broad range of Jefferson's interests, and the depth of his knowledge.They also give strong hints as to why he sent out Lewis and Clark -- and had them well prepared -- as well as Zebulon Pike and, on the Red River, Freeman.I recommend that immediately after reading the Notes, turn to J's 1803 letter of instruction to Merriwether Lewis.It's just an amazing piece of work: less than seven pages of the book -- and Jefferson planned the whole Lewis and Clark expedition BEFORE he had acquired the Louisiana territory.

Fourth, I got a charge out of the variety of the matters he dealt with when he was President.In a single year, 1803, for instance, he was grappling with the nation's division between democracy, which he championed, and aristocracy, which he viewed the Federalsts as working toward; he found time to write a serious missive concerning his views of Jesus as opposed to the major Greek and Roman philosophers and the Jews; he instructed William H. harrison regarding Jefferson's deep policy regarding the Indians; he focused upon agriculture -- the successful use of gypsum in Louden County, VA; reduction of the costs of government, and of course the Louisiana Purchase.Wow!

Fifth, his writings to John Adams, and Abigail, may tantalize some of us into reading both ends of their correspondence.

Of course, there's much, much more.After I got well into Jefferson's writings, I was compelled to buy the Library of America edition of Madison's writings -- a dangerous situation for anyone who wants to spend leisure time doing other things than reading great works from our Founding Fathers.

Jawsome.
Thomas Jefferson is a rock star. This is his twisted tale of creating a nation. That is just about as metal as it gets. ... Read more

Product Description

The Real Thomas Jefferson: The True Story of America's Philosopher of Freedom

Jefferson is the central figure in American history, and...he may yet prove to be the central figure in modern history. So stated noted historian Henry Steele Commager. And as the English novelist Samuel Butler once wrote, Though God cannot alter the past--historians can. His observation is especially applicable to our changing perceptions of great historical personalities, most of whom are relentlessly reinterpreted by each new generation of biographers.

There is no better example of this kind of metamorphosis than Thomas Jefferson, author of the American Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States. Since his death in 1826, he has been alternately vilified and deified by writers of varying motivations. In The Real Thomas Jefferson, by allowing Jefferson to explain his life and ideas in his own words, we have tried to ensure that his spirit, not ours, will breathe in these pages so that all who read them will become acquainted with Jefferson himself -- not another second-hand interpretation. His biography is set forth in Part I, and Part II brings together the most insightful passages from his writings, arranged by subject.

Highly acclaimed by many, including Glenn Beck of the Fox News Channel. Published by the National Center for Constitutional Studies, a nonprofit educational foundation dedicated to restoring Constitutional principles in the tradition of America's Founding Fathers. The National Center for Constitutional Studies...is doing a fine public service in educating Americans about the principles of the Constitution. -- Ronald Reagan, President of the United States

Customer Reviews (32)

The Real Thomas Jefferson
This is a book every American should read.It is the truth about this excellent founding Father.He was the right man at the right time to found this great country

Keep Our History Alive
I Bought this & the others in the Series for all in my Family so they can teach their Childrenthe Real History of Our Country. We Must Have The "Real History" to Remember Who We Are.

Excellent!!! - Couldn't Put It Down
Excellent - Couldn't Put It Down.I was afraid it would be boring but it wasn't.My 14 yr. old son also read and enjoyed it.I finished this several months ago and have gone back and re-read various sections.The reference section and Writings section are a huge bonus as well.I would recommend this book for the casual reader as well as for advanced study. check out The Real Benjamin Franklin (American Classic Series) and The Real George Washington (American Classic Series) as well.

Excellent book!
This is one of the best, most informative books I've ever read.The detail with which the book was written makes the reader feel as though he has actually met face to face with Jefferson.Also, the numerous writings of Jefferson himself that are captured in the second part of the book are absolutely fascinating.The only discouraging thing I can say about the book is it really makes me realize how far our country has drifted from its original founding.

So glad that I read this book
Reading this book gave me insight into the character of Thomas Jefferson.He was an amazing person; so gifted and desiring to live a life that benefitted his fellowman & glorified God. I pray that we can have people in government office today that has the integrity, humility and Godly wisdom that he had. ... Read more

Product Description
Thomas Jefferson was an avid book-collector, a voracious reader, and a gifted writer--a man who prided himself on his knowledge of classical and modern languages and whose marginal annotations include quotations from Euripides, Herodotus, and Milton. And yet there has never been a literary life of our most literary president.

In The Road to Monticello, Kevin J. Hayes fills this important gap by offering a lively account of Jefferson's spiritual and intellectual development, focusing on the books and ideas that exerted the most profound influence on him. Moving chronologically through Jefferson's life, Hayes reveals the full range and depth of Jefferson's literary passions, from the popular "small books" sold by traveling chapmen, such as The History of Tom Thumb, which enthralled him as a child; to his lifelong love of Aesop's Fables and Robinson Crusoe; his engagement with Horace, Ovid, Virgil and other writers of classical antiquity; and his deep affinity with the melancholy verse of Ossian, the legendary third-century Gaelic warrior-poet. Drawing on Jefferson's letters, journals, and commonplace books, Hayes offers a wealth of new scholarship on the print culture of colonial America, reveals an intimate portrait of Jefferson's activities beyond the political chamber, and reconstructs the president's investigations in such different fields of knowledge as law, history, philosophy and natural science. Most importantly, Hayes uncovers the ideas and exchanges which informed the thinking of America's first great intellectual and shows how his lifelong pursuit of knowledge culminated in the formation of a public offering, the "academic village" which became UVA, and his more private retreat at Monticello.

Gracefully written and painstakingly researched, The Road to Monticello provides an invaluable look at Jefferson's intellectual and literary life, uncovering the roots of some of the most important--and influential--ideas that have informed American history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Educational, insightful, and a great read
Originally purchased this book as a gift for a friend who loves TJ. Same day, without knowing that I had gotten it, he purchased it too. I ended up reading the book and absolutely loved it. I became a TJ and a Hayes convert. The book flows well, is very well researched, builds a well rounded TJ, without overly emphasizing his greatness or leaving out his shortcomings, and does all this by integrating TJ's life into the bigger picture of American history.

Inspiring
"The Road to Monticello" is a most enjoyable biography to read, and one that does justice to an incredible man. Enjoyable, because Jefferson's life-long dedication to study and knowledge is truly inspiring, making one realize the importance of self-study in a day and age where it has become almost abnormal to do so. Additionally, the attention to detail in this book is phenomenal. The book does not attempt to do the impossible of encompassing every aspect of Jefferson's life, but the things it does cover, are covered so well that the reader does not need to worry about filling in holes. The attention to detail also makes it a very personal account of Jefferson.

Hayes's writing is sophisticated and the book is well researched, something remarkable provided how many literary works it describes. Often, one gets the feeling that Hayes has truly made new discoveries about Jefferson not found anywhere else. It is an amazing scholarly work.

However, I have to warn people who are looking for a complete biography of Jefferson that this book is not it. I highly recommend it to those wanting to get to know Jefferson more profoundly in terms of what he studied and what mattered to him, or for those simply looking for inspiration from a great man.

Book on books
If all you want to know is what books Jefferson purchased, then this is the book for you.

tghe road to monticello
This is a good book for people who want to read about the books that Jefferson read and had in his library.You would need to read some other book on his life to get the historical perspective.It is well written but I think most readers would think it is extreamly dry.

This one is for the Bibliophiles
One of the most interesting biographies I've ever read. If you're looking for relational or historical details of Thomas Jefferson's life- this is not the book for you. If you have a borderline unhealthy love for books- hit that purchase button.

This book can be summarized on page 564, "The Retirement Library" where Jefferson comments to Adams that "I cannot live without books."

Hayes did an excellent job relating Jefferson's life through the spectrum of books he read- from boyhood until his deathbed. Whether you like Jefferson or not- it is easy to appreciate his thirst for knowledge. Each chapter was perfect in length. Hayes' use of the English language is refreshing- I always enjoy learning plenty of new words.

I actually cried...almost sobbed...in the chapter that his wife died. People seemed much more romantic then...Martha wrote "Time wastes too fast, every letter I trace tells me with what rapidity life follows my pen. The days and hours of it are flying over our heads like clouds of a windy day never to return- more everything presses on." And Jefferson responds, "and every time I kiss thy hand to bid adieu, every absence which follows it, are preludes to that eternal separation which we are shortly to make." ahh, what a good book. ... Read more

Product Description

Applewood Books is pleased to introduce a new series of quotation books which will collect and celebrate the words of great figures from American history. To kick off the series, we begin with three of the Founding Fathers Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln, who ended slavery and led the country through a civil war. The words of these men, from private journals, correspondence, speeches and public writings, are as inspiring and thought-provoking today as when they were first written. This new series is attractively packaged in trim hardcovers with a three-piece case binding. A classic portrait of the author peers out from the front cover with his signature printed below it in gold foil. Each volume contains about 100 quotations. These beautiful little books arrive just in time for the gift-giving holidays.

Customer Reviews (7)

Love Thomas Jefferson....not enough quotes for a whole book...
This book had some great quotes in it, but it was way too short to earn a good rating.The book is only 30+ pages with 3-6 quotes on almost every page.Most quotation books have at least 400 - 4,000 quotes, so this was a huge disappointment.That being said, Thomas Jefferson said many profound things, and if you are a huge Jefferson fan, you will probably find a lot of value in this book.If that's you, Enjoy!

Todd Hagopian
President/CEO
Hagopian Institute
Author of the popular "Quote Junkie" book sereies and the brand new "Idiom Junkie" series

Quotations of Thomas Jefferson
This little book is crammed with wise quotes, which are just as important today as they were when Jefferson lived.

Classy Gift
Words of wisdom from a courageous man who understood sacrifice...who risked everything in this world to turn back tyranny from wherever he found it!We will always remain greatful! Perfect Gift!!!!!!!!!

Warning: Contains fake quotations
Note: Amazon.com is mixing the reviews of two completely unrelated Thomas Jefferson books. This review is for Quotations of Thomas Jefferson, not Thomas Jefferson: Writings, Autobiography, Notes on the State of Virginia, Public and Private Papers, Addresses, Letters.

"Quotations of Thomas Jefferson" contains numerous fake quotations. Fake quotations are far more common than most people realize. Real quotations can be tracked back to specific writings of the person being quoted. On the other hand, fake quotations spread like folklore. They spread from book to book, web page to web page, simply because the quotation sounds nice and is attributed to a famous person, without anyone verifying or documenting the original source. Here's a tip: if the book doesn't provide references for each quotation, many of the quotes are probably fake.

It is really unfortunate that the person who compiled this book didn't bother to visit the Monticello website's "Spurious Quotations" page. They would have found that several of the Jefferson quotes in the book are known to be fake. The person who compiled this book also didn't provide any references to document the authenticity of the quotations contained within it.

If you want a book with real, verifiable quotations, try Bartlett's Familiar Quotations or the aforementioned Thomas Jefferson: Writings, Autobiography, Notes on the State of Virginia, Public and Private Papers, Addresses, Letters.

Update: Apparently, some people who have read my review don't understand what I said in the very first paragraph, so let me re-emphasize. Amazon.com is cross-posting these reviews to the web pages for TWO ENTIRELY DIFFERENT THOMAS JEFFERSON BOOKS! I cannot control the fact that the review I posted for a poor-quality Thomas Jefferson book is also ending up on the web page for a good-quality Thomas Jefferson book. If the cover of the book you are looking at is green, then it is a bad book with fake quotes. That's the book I posted my review for. If the cover of the book you are looking at is black, then my review does not apply. It is Amazon.com's fault that all of these reviews are being cross-posted to two entirely different books.

Not worth it!
This book is tiny!It's 32 pages with about 4 short quotes per page.Not worth $10.Barely worth $2.Know what you're getting into before you buy this book.The five star reviews are highly misleading and don't appear to be reviewing this specific book.I'm returning it immediately because the publisher, Applewood Books, is obviously inflating the reviews or there is a mistake on Amazon's part.Either way, don't waste your money.Thomas Jefferson was an amazing person, but his legacy should not be tarnished by this "book." ... Read more

Product Description
The definitive life of Jefferson in one volume, this biography relates Jefferson's private life and thought to his prominent public position and reveals the rich complexity of his development.As Peterson explores the dominant themes guiding Jefferson's career--democracy, nationality, and enlightenment--and Jefferson's powerful role in shaping America, he simultaneously tells the story of nation coming into being. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

An Excellent One-Volume Treatment of Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson and the New Nation is a superb one-volume treatment of America's most important and intriguing figures.Writing a book about a statesman whose career included so many achievements and included so many offices over the course of so many years is a tough task.But author Merrill D. Peterson succeeds in a thoroughly readable account of the author of the Declaration of Independence, our first SecState and our third POTUS.

Peterson's book offers a decidedly sympathetic look at Jefferson and his life.One can't help but come away from reading the book with sense of partiality toward Jefferson.For this reviewer, this perspective was a welcome one, having previously spent much more time reading and reflecting from the Hamiltonian/Marshallian point of view.

As mentioned, the author covers the whole of Jefferson's life.This includes humble beginnings in Virginia, a short law practice, early election as a Burgess, the Governorship of Virginia, service in the Continental Congress, time abroad as an emissary to France, service in the Washington Administration as Secretary of State, a term as our nation's Vice-President, leader of the emerging Democratic-Republican party, two terms as President, and a life of retirement in Monticello.That's a lot.But it necessarily means that the author couldn't delve too deeply into any particular episode.For instance, the suicide of Meriwether Lewis--Jefferson's former personal secretary and the man Jefferson commissioned for the famous expedition--is only mentioned in passing with no reflection on their relationship or Jefferson's assessment of Lewis.Simply put, 1,000 pages aren't nearly enough to chronicle the many facets and events of Jefferson's accomplished life.But this volume makes for a terrific start to a more intensive study of Jefferson.

Along the way, Peterson does take time to reflect on Jefferson's views and actions toward slavery.Nothing groundbreaking emerges, as one comes away with the sense that Jefferson had moral qualms with the institution that was part of the society he was born into, but that he either had no ideas of how to address the problem or the means to do anything.Jefferson's long-standing interest in fighting the Barbary pirates is also of significance to today's readers, as we try to draw lessons from America's past in confronting modern day jihadi terrorism.

Finally, despite all he achieved in life, readers are also confronted with a man who suffered profound loss and sadness.The death of his wife and children aren't addressed at length, but are touched on just enough to convey the sense of grief that the man endured.Sadly, the book also suggests that Jefferson's life of retirement was largely unfulfilled and beset by difficulties that continued until the July 4 day he died.

A good Jefferson biography can be hard to find.I couldn't bring myself to read Joseph Ellis's Jefferson bio, "American Sphinx," since I remain too distrustful of any historian who repeatedly lied about serving his country in war.Peterson's book was the perfect alternative.Unlike Ellis's book, however, you probably won't find Peterson's book at your local bookstore.(Though I did spot a copy in Monticello's gift shop.)

I highly recommend Merrill D. Peterson's "Thomas Jefferson and the New Nation."

John Adams was right.........
He does. And this may well be the finest look at him, and the greatest one volume biography in the English language. There are few truly great works of biography, and my list, like the list of most everybody, centers on people I like, and admire...Freeman's massive, multi-volume, studies of Generals Lee and Washington...Robert Douthat Meade's looks at Patrick Henry [two volumes], and Judah Benjamin...Charles Roland's Albert Sidney Johnston...Glenn Robins' Bishop Polk; of course, ANY list, subjective or objective, must have Dumas Malone's six-volume "Jefferson And His Time" at, or near, the top. One man got two of the greatest works? Not surprising; he was quite a man. Peterson and Malone were friends, and colleagues, at the University of Virginia, and had very similar views of Mr. Jefferson; of course, Jefferson has caused a LOT of ink to be used, and always will. The books are good, bad, indifferent, and stupid...with some flat-out lies thrown in. But, there are two truly great biographies available, and one is our subject here....

Thomas Jefferson [1743-1826] crowded more accomplishments, and interests, into one lifetime than seems possible. Yet, for all the huge record he created, both public and private, he remains for us a riddle that we just can't solve. That's true for me, and Dr. Peterson has stated that it's true for him, too. Jefferson can be quoted to "prove" ANYTHING. He who said that "all men are created equal" had some observations on the orangutang. Union was desirable; secession a free choice. Many of the quotes embarass some in our day; with most, we have no earthly idea what he meant, even when we think we do. I may as well state my own theory right here; at least part of the genius of Thomas Jefferson is that he was a man not troubled by contradictions. He was both public and private, theoretical and practical, open and secretive...and it never bothered him a bit.

This is an absolutely outstanding, and very complete, cradle to grave study of Mr. Jefferson. It's ALL here, in detail, from family background on. Details of education, his various "loves" [Betsey Walker is apologized for, and Sally is dismissed], the keys to the founding of America, his repeated "retirements", and "reluctant" returns to public service. Maria Cosway gets plenty of space, though there is no proof that the relationship was anything more than an improper friendship. His service as Minister to France, and his miseries as Secretary of State, and Vice President are looked at in great detail. The breaks with Washington and Adams, the mutual hatred with Hamilton and Marshall, get full coverage. {Marshall, at least, was loyal to America}. Aaron Burr? James Callendar? Yes, they're here, and we wish they didn't have to be.
Two terms as President, one joyous [LOUISIANA!!], one a real pain......Thru it all, books, debts, books, debts, religion, farming, science, architecture, religion? Monticello, more debts, more books, letters, letters, letters.......[he was NOT an athiest]........

Thomas Jefferson wrote the inscription for his own tombstone [the one you can see at Monticello is a replacement, the original having been taken by souvenir hunters]; he wanted to be remembered as the author of the Declaration of Independence, and the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and the father of the University of Virginia; these subjects are all studied at to perfection.

If you want one complete volume on Thomas Jefferson, start, and end, right here. It is total, comprehensive, and very readable. Dr. Peterson is the greatest living Jefferson scholar. Period. However, it is 1,009 pages of small print. I fear that many of the copies sold end up on shelves, collecting dust. Sad. Don't waste your money just to stick it on a shelf so folks can see how smart you are; that insults Dr. Peterson. I usually recommend the works of Joe Ellis, or Noble Cunningham {NOT Fawn Brodie}, and they're very good, but....If you want it ALL, Dumas Malone is readable, and easily available. One way or another, Jefferson deserves your best effort. He invented America, and as noted in my headline, John Adams' last words were absolutely correct...he, indeed, still survives.

The Greatest President Since Sliced Bread
I'll start with what I liked about this book. The coverage of the Louisiana Purchase was exciting. Jefferson's ill-fated embargo in 1807 was really well done. The descriptions all throughout the book of Jefferson's underlying politics were enlightening. I certainly understood why Jefferson did what he did.

But if this was the only book you read about the American revolution and its aftermath, you'd think that the word "Federalist" was an obscenity. The book was so over-the-top pro-Jefferson, that it made me doubt the author's perspective on everything. So having trudged through all 1000 pages, I still have no idea what the great things were that TJ did, because according to Peterson, everything was great.

The book should have been 300 or 400 pages shorter. Every event in Jefferson's life is covered thoroughly, but each one goes on a little too long. Actually, if the author had simply taken out the paragraph or two in each section where he blames Hamilton for whatever just happened, I think he would have gotten it down a couple hundred pages on that alone.

A very thorough view of a complex man
Over the last several years I've read about 40 presidential biographies, usually relying on Amazon reviewers to point me towards the best and most comprehensive works.I struggled in my choice of a Jefferson biography, but I'm glad I opted for Peterson's work.First, it is a massive 1,000 pages, and it`s not for the faint of heart. While Peterson writes well, he certainly doesn't have the breezy style of a David McCullough or a Robert Dallek. Even hardy readers will feel a bit spent with the complex content from time to time, and I'd doubt most high school readers' ability to wade through the material.

Despite these cautions, I give Peterson's book a very high rating. Peterson captured Jefferson's personality, accomplishments, and flaws.With as complex a guy as TJ, this is not easy. Peterson also describes the conflicts between Jefferson and the various Federalists as well as anyone I've read thus far.Jefferson saw this conflict as more treacherous for the US than the Revolutionary War (and his concerns are highly relevant is viewing today's politics).

The emphasis is on Jefferson and his public life, and to a somewhat lesser extent on Jefferson's private self.It was written many years prior to the DNA testing of Sally Hemmings' heirs, and while Petersonbriefly discusses the accusations of a Jefferson - Hemmings relationship, he dismisses it in favor of another Jefferson relative.But Peterson does not overlook Jefferson's conflicts about slavery, manumission, liberty, etc.As with other aspects of Jefferson's life, Peterson presents a comprehensive view and he is willing to point out Jefferson's mistakes. Does Peterson's probable error regarding the Hemming's controversy diminish this biography? Well, maybe, but with a man like Jefferson, this is but one facet of a very thorough and well-reasoned look at a extremely complex man who played a major role in several of the US's most challenging eras.

Holds Up Well

The other reviews here go into some depth on the book, but mine rather is more in the form of a personal testament. There is so much to Jefferson's life, as with our other founding 'fathers' that I will not do him the injustice of trying to sum it up in only a few paragraphs.

When this book came out in 1970 I was in college, I'm now 61 years of age. Gives some indication how long this book has been continuously in print. With good reason for this is probably the best single volume on Jefferson's life ever printed.

When I was at Monticello last year I noticed several books on or about Jeffersonin the Mountaintop Shop and Monticello Museum, but prominently displayed too was this volume. Whenever I go to Borders bookstores this volume is on their shelves. It continues to be ubiquitous after almost 35 years.

This book is and has been an essential in my library, along side the Dumas Malone study, as well nigh on to 20 other volumes on Jefferson or his times. Though the subject matter in books on Thomas Jefferson is varied and extensive, this one volume study is an essential one for me.

I recommend it to both the novice or the seasoned Jefferson reader, neither will be disappointed.

Semper Fi. ... Read more

Product Description
In her sixth presidential biography for National Geographic, Cheryl Harness illuminates the many sides of Thomas Jefferson: scientist, lawyer, farmer, architect, diplomat, inventor, musician, philosopher, author of the Declaration of Independence, founder of the University of Virginia, and third president of the United States. Readers meet this extraordinary man of contradictions: a genius who proclaimed that "All men are created equal" and championed the rights of "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," while at the same time living a life that depended on the enforced labor of slaves.

Readers experience an eventful life lived largely in public service, yet also enjoy the personal warmth of this fascinating historical figure. The narrative examines the crucial role that the "sage of Monticello" played in shaping the ideals of freedom and self-government, which became the cornerstones of American democracy. The author's conversational storytelling, her richly detailed illustrations, and use of period maps bring to life the exciting times of Thomas Jefferson on every page. This appealing and insightful biography is an honest, well-balanced portrait of a complex and controversial American legend. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Highly illustrated book... great for Jefferson reader
Cheryl Harness have written and illustrated some of our nation's great presidents (John Adams, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, etc.), but for Jefferson, I think she did a good job on explaining about Thomas Jefferson. Although this book is mainly for children to give them a main idea about our third president of the United States, many adults, including myself, can learn something from this book. It's highly illustrated on some of the important events in Jefferson life. If you really want your child to know Jefferson or just get a brief idea about him, or do a research paper on Jefferson, I would highly recommanded this book. As well as people that want to be major in US history, this is one of the book that I would recommand. Because illustrations can help a child, even as well as an adult, to understand better about what's going on in the book.
As you filp through pages of this book, Chernal Harness (author) gives you a very good idea of some of the events during Jefferson's time. She show some interesting maps in this book (like P. 25 for example) that tells you about what's going on in that time.
The author also showed you how Monticello was like during Jefferson's retirement. She show a "blue print" (P.36) and a layout map (P.38-39)of Jefferson's "Essays of Architecture"-Monticello and as well his garden and where his slaves work.
As a "Jefferson scholar" and history book collector, I really enjoy reading this book. Even though I might think I already know a lot about Jefferson, but when I first read this book, it teach me something new about him-William Clark came back from the "Corps of Discovery" and lay out the map of the US to show President Jefferson where did he and Meriwether Lewis traveled and explored.
I think this book is fun to read for everyone, no matter how old you are. ... Read more

Product Description
The Constitution of the United States of America, with The Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights and all of the Amendments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Only bill of rights
CAUTION. This is only the Bill of Rights, and NOT the Constitution and other amendments.Only .99, but I wanted it all and Amazon. Doesn't seem to have a way to. Complain about the misleading title. ... Read more

Product Description
At different times Thomas Jefferson has been claimed by Southern secessionists and Northern abolitionists, New Deal liberals and neoconservativesNow historian Joseph J. Ellis restores our most elusive national icon to human dimensions with insight, sympathy, and superb style, shrewdly sifting the facts from the legends and the rumors. From the drafting of the Declaration of Independence to his retirement in Monticello, Ellis unravels the contradictions of his character, giving us the slaveholding libertarian, the enemy of government power who exercised it audaciously as president; and the visionary who remained blind to his own inconsistencies.A marvel of scholarship and a delight to read, American Sphinx is a book whose appeal transcends history buffs and biography fans and provides an essential gloss on the Jeffersonian legacy.Amazon.com Review
Well timed to coincide with Ken Burns'sdocumentary (on which the author served as a consultant), this newbiography doesn't aim to displace the many massive tomes aboutAmerica's third president that already weigh down bookshelves.Instead, as suggested by the subtitle--"The Character of ThomasJefferson"--Ellis searches for the "living, breathing person"underneath the icon and tries to elucidate his actual beliefs.Jefferson's most ardent admirers may find this perspective toocritical, but Ellis's portrait of a complex, sometimes devious manwho both sought and abhorred power has the ring of truth. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (160)

Pleasantly surprised
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.I have much respect for Thomas Jefferson and I try to avoid presentism.I was a little leery of this book because of some of the reviews I had read, especially concerning Ellis' conclusions about Hemings, whereas I do not think the issue is resolved (see "In Defense of Thomas Jefferson" by Hyland) and is definitely not proven.

Ellis is a good historian and is also a very good writer.The book is engaging and held my interest very well.It is more than just another "Jefferson did this, and then he did this, and then he went here and then he did that" book.I had been avoiding Ellis, but after reading this I went out and bought some more of his books.

Hilarious Left-Wing Tripe
It is really no surprise upon genuflection that a modern academic of the disposition to unveil yet another interpretation of Jefferson would concoct a veiled left-wing screed intended to take the champion of American liberty down a few notches.But my apologizes to Ellis and other "oh-so-serious," utterly predictable, and tendentious sycophants of the state, you are not even in Jefferson's class as a political thinker.

While Jefferson helped inspire a revolution that outshines all others in world history, today's leftist intellectuals are destructive, spiteful, and deceptive creatures whose lasting achievements include extending the breadth and depth of tyranny throughout the world.Apparently lacking maturity of thought and the self-awareness to realize that a Jefferson and Madison completely and thoroughly predicted the disastrous implications of their anti-Enlightenment program, yet they proceed on, never looking back, never apologizing for the human misery and suffering they create, always blaming omnipotent phantasms such as "capitalism" for their failures.

Jefferson, were he alive today, would unleash brutal vivisections of the neofeudalist ideologies of the left that would make Ellis' laughable screeds look like the crayon scrawlings of a hyperactive five year old.This is what American Sphinx amounts to, when firmly fixing the clumsily veiled metanarrative in mind that state power is necessary for one's own good.While Ellis and his academic "colleagues" imply that Jefferson's ideas are as outdated as horse carriages and powdered wigs,I can only laugh at the writing of today's pretentious "intellectuals" when I compare their works side-by-side with those of Jefferson.

Good Study of Jefferson
I like how Ellis approaches his subject--he centers his work on particular events, rather than sheer chronological biography. His research is nearly flawless. However, I find his approach to Jefferson (well, this is true of all modern Jeffersonian biographers) to be biased; he seems almost sarcastic at times, as though he is determined to topple the myth of Jefferson, the man of the people. We are dealing with a complex historical figure, who knew that he would be the topic of much spilled ink--think of what Jefferson did not include among his surviving correspondence. I believe Ellis makes every effort to withhold judgment--another strength of the book, as many biographers don't even try. (I'm thinking of Malone who seemed to worship Jefferson, even though his research and detail is nothing short of amazing.)Perhaps Ellis cannot avoid his impatience with the near deification of Jefferson, but there were times he needed to hold back on his dismissive tone.

Elegant and Informative
This is an elegant, informative and well researched book.I've learned many things about Thomas Jefferson (for example: he didn't like public attention) and Mr. Ellis' analysis is certainly worth of praise.

The book is divided into five parts:
- Philadelphia: 1775 -76
- Paris: 1784-89
- Monticello: 1794 - 97
- Washington D.C.: 1801 - 04
- Monticello: 1816 - 26

As you can see, the book starts at the dawn of the American Revolution with Jefferson's arrival in Philadelphia as the delegate from Virginia to the Continental Congress and follows him to his later years in Monticello.

While I highly recommend this book to any history fan, I'd just like to say that for me it was rather difficult to read.I don't know why as I love history and history books - maybe because the text seemed more like a lecture than a "story".

Engaging but uninspired
I'm trying to make this a critique of the book rather than of Jefferson.

First, I found this book hard to get into at first. I'm no slouch in the vocabulary department but I found myself overwhelmed with some of the word choice. Once I rid myself of outside distractions I was fine but this is definitely not a book to read while the kids are running around or the tv is on in the background. You might find yourself staring at the page, rereading sentences like "... he expressed frustration with the paralyzing combination of indolence and garrulousness that afflicted the Congress," over and over again.

I was surprised to read some of the reviews stating that this was not a favorable view of Jefferson. While Ellis did a god job of exposing the conflict of actions vs. ideals of Jefferson, I found his take on them to be too apologetic. It seemed as if this was one long book of excuses on how Jefferson was able to say one thing and do another. I understand that this was not intended to be a formal biography of the day to day life and events on Jefferson but Ellis skipped huge amounts of important areas. Jefferson's entire Vice Presidency was left out. His second term as president was mostly ignored with only brief mentions of some things. I would have liked to know Jefferson's reasoning and thoughts when he essentially quit the Vice Presidency and secretly helped establish partisan politics. I'd like to know his motivations behind the Embargo Act and his feelings on Aaron Burr and his scandals. I concluded that these events were left out because they were too unfavorable to Jefferson. I admit that I could be wrong and that there could have been very good reasons for leaving these out but I don't know what they could be.

I did find myself highly engaged in this book. I had internal debates over Jefferson's ideals versus what really happened then and what is happening now. If I could find someone to have actual conversations about this stuff with in my life, I'd be in heaven. ... Read more

Product Description
An intellectual dialogue of the highest plane achieved in America, the correspondence between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson spanned half a century and embraced government, philosophy, religion, quotidiana, and family griefs and joys. First meeting as delegates to the Continental Congress in 1775, they initiated correspondence in 1777, negotiated jointly as ministers in Europe in the 1780s, and served the early Republic—each, ultimately, in its highest office. At Jefferson's defeat of Adams for the presidency in 1800, they became estranged, and the correspondence lapses from 1801 to 1812, then is renewed until the death of both in 1826, fifty years to the day after the Declaration of Independence.

Lester J. Cappon's edition, first published in 1959 in two volumes, provides the complete correspondence between these two men and includes the correspondence between Abigail Adams and Jefferson. Many of these letters have been published in no other modern edition, nor does any other edition devote itself exclusively to the exchange between Jefferson and the Adamses. Introduction, headnotes, and footnotes inform the reader without interrupting the speakers. This reissue of The Adams-Jefferson Letters in a one-volume unabridged edition brings to a broader audience one of the monuments of American scholarship and, to quote C. Vann Woodward, 'a major treasure of national literature.' ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

A brilliant insight into how two of our Founding Fathers thought about the state and fate of our Republic
Adams and Jefferson converse on a variety of subjects, ranging from the importance of religion in the public sector (and what that means), to what sets Native Americans apart from other "savages" (they remark on how advanced and civilized they are--and the theory that they may be descended from Israel!), to Greek translations!

A nice moment is when Jefferson gives the new president--John Quincy Adams--a nod of encouragement, as he also gives kduos to his friend for raising his son in a way that prepared him for the highest office of the land, without realizing it.

One of the most powerfull subjects they discuss, however, begins when Adams starts to express doubt on whether our Republic will truly stand the test of time. This, indeed, is the memorable exchange that commmentator Glenn Beck often refers to.

Adams rights on December 21st, 1819, "I know it is high treason to express a doubt of the perpetual duration of our vast American Empire...but I am sometimes Cassandra enough to dream that another Hamilton, another Burr might rend this mighty Fabric in twain, or perhaps into a leash, and a few more choice spirits of the same Stamp, might produce as many Nations in North America as there are in Europe."

At first, Jefferson replies with reassurance, saying, (on March 14, 1820), "We have, willingly, done injury to no man; and have done for our country the good which has fallen in our way, so far as commensurate with the faculties given us.That we have not done more than we could cannot be imputed to us as a crime before any tribunal.I look therefore to that crisis, as I am sure you also do, as one "who neither fears the final day nor hopes for it."

Later, he addresses the idea more fully, expressing that freedom CAN be restored, should the worst happen.On September 4th, 1823, he writes, "A first attempt to recover the right of self-government may fail; so may a 2nd, a 3rd, etc., bus as a younger, and more instructed race [in other words, as Beck paraphrases, a generation that finally understands what the Founders were trying to do] comes on, the sentiment becomes more and more intuitive, and a 4th, a 5th, or some subsequent one of the ever renewed attempts will ultimately succeed."

He adds that "To attain all this, however, rivers of blood must yet flow, and years of desolation pass over.Yet the object is worth rivers of blood, and years of desolation--for what inheritance so valuable can man leave to his prosperity?"

Thus, there is optimism, mixed with a dark warning--make sure you preserve your freedom.You can get it back if you lose it...but it will mean going through torment to restore it all to what it was.

Orion's Belt
** Page 451 - John Adams to Jefferson - "Who shall write the History of the Revolution?Who can write it?Who will ever be able to write it?The most essential documents, the debates and deliberations in Congress from 1774 to 1783 were all in secret, and are now lost forever."

** Page 452 - Thomas Jefferson to Adams - "You ask 'Who shall write it?Who can write it?Who will ever be able to write it? 'Nobody; except for merely it's external facts."
*****************************

For any American History enthusiast, this surely should be recommended without reservation.Much has been written by others, but nothing is told quite so well or completely as that which derives from the pen of the men and women who took the time to set it down "in vivo". Within the pages of this remarkable set of documents, we observe two of the forefathers spend their lives in devout service to their new nation - as though we walk beside them.We watch as youthful vigor turns to experienced maturity as they did the work of the people and suffered the personal consequences of such an undertaking; subsequently and sorrowfully, the subsiding into the resignation of waiting out the waning years as mortal health but not mind or memory forsake them both; and finally, the letters abruptly end, but the brilliance left behind will never die.

How fortunate we were to have people of such courage of conviction willing to step forward under pain of death to do the incredibly difficult, often thankless work of a new nation.These letters bring to light the very soul of the beginnings; the intimate insight into the restless minds and hearts of three of them who opted to share among them the burdens, the experiences and undoubtedly, the euphoria that went with it - of moral support in a daunting task accomplished when it was well thought out; trusted criticism when it needed a bit more of thoughts amended.

Jefferson, in his brilliance, is all business when writing to John Adams, but less so when he is conversing with Abigail - it's as if he lets his guard down and is freer of constraints with her; sensing a different canvas and a kindred spirit, his sense of humor tries to come through and makes it as far as decorum of that era will allow.A good example begins on page 34.He initiates a tongue-in-cheek dialog with Abigail regarding the "energy of government" running wild with the censorship of a "treasonous" song that, in true political discretion, he can't remember the "who" origins of,(but has all the other details down pat) that subsequently landed the offender in jail after "he was 'seised' in the middle of the night"; and refers to it again later on in his correspondence as a lark needing more mileage.However, it is also somewhat apparent that she did not forgive him their eventual political differences as did her husband, for her part of the once-lively correspondence suffers a sea-change and, as I saw it, becomes duty-bound courteous responses, mostly as addendum to John Adams letters.A fascinating glimpse into the playful under-psyche of a genius, we also find an unshakable granite vein of common sense which is what I found so remarkable about him.

While both men were in the trenches on the forefront, their approach was endogenously different; Adams was a fierce competitor, obviously thriving on the frey even as he missed his farm and homeland; Jefferson had little taste for the twit and twitter of politics, and in fact, intimated that he would prefer to quit entirely rather than stoop to some of it. (page 70)Adams too, had a flair for the dramatic humor at times, referring to the Duties that the English ships would avoid by simply "frenchizing, Dutchizing, Swedishimizing" their ships.Their responsibility toward the country's limited financial means is noteworthy by today's debauched standards; they were discussing the prudence of financing a suit of clothes for one of their trusted messengers in order for him to be presentable in the court of the dignitaries.

I marvel at how diligently they overcame the communications difficulties; their important missives had to cross entire oceans to and from.Think of the loss of precious time - no planes, no electronics, no instant means by which to make decisions - the only method via ships taking several weeks in the best of conditions to reach a destination and deliver the business correspondence (by pen) of entire countries (and the children) to the waiting.

It is clear they valued one another highly, both professionally and personally, and though driven apart by differences of opinion (much of it personal)and political pressures placed on them by the parts they would play in the developing Nation, the bond was ultimately too strong to break, and they would once again reunite to spend their last years in friendship.It is also clear that the wisdom of Dr. Benjamin Rush played a role in stimulating their forgiveness of one another).

For Jefferson and Adams, bound by fate as they lived, even unto death they rode together - on Independence Day.

It is ironic that Abigail Adams would never cast her vote for either man.Abigail Adams could not vote.

Did everyone get this book with a sleeve?
I did not receive a sleeve with this book as described in the picture and I am embarrassed to give this as a gift to someone for Christmas. Amazon offered to give me a replacement in 3-5 weeks but there is no guarantee that it will come with a sleeve. I was wondering if everyone else received this book with it's sleeve or just the hardcover book?

I like the book!
It is a very good book, the reading is really good!!! I loved reading the letters between Jefferson and Adams!!!! The letters are very good!!!!

Makes history come alive
This is a very intersting book.The letters are all preceeded by an introduction that gives the reader historical context as well as a description of the relationship at the time between the writers of the letter. ... Read more

Product Description
In this new concise biography Thomas Jefferson historian R.B. Bernstein finds the key to this enigmatic Founder not as a great political figure, but as leader of a "revolution of ideas that would make the world over again".

Bernstein examines Jefferson's strengths and weaknesses, his achievements and failures, his triumphs, contradictions, and failings. Thomas Jefferson details his luxurious (and debt-burdened) life as a Virginia gentleman to his passionate belief in democracy, from his tortured defense of slavery to his relationship with Sally Hemings. An architect, inventor, writer, diplomat, propagandist, planter, party leader Jefferson was multifaceted, and Bernstein explores these roles even as he illuminates Jefferson's central place in American enlightenment the "revolution of ideas" that did so much to create the nation we are today. Bernstein also examines the less-remembered points in Jefferson's thinking the nature of the Union, his vision of who was entitled to citizenship, his dread of debt (both personal and national).

Thomas Jefferson is the latest title in the Oxford Portraits series, which offers informative and insightful biographies of people whose lives shaped their times and continue to influence ours. Each volume in the series is heavily based on primary documents, including writings by and about each subject. Every Oxford Portrait is illustrated with a wealth of photographs, original letters, manuscripts, and memorabilia that frame the personality and achievements of its subject against the backdrop of history. Every volume in the series can be incorporated into the American history curriculum at the middle and high school levels. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great High School Introduction
Having read and thoroughly enjoying Bernstein's earlier biography of Thomas Jefferson, I decided to give THOMAS JEFFERSON: THE REVOLUTION OF IDEAS, a look. Like his earlier work, this is a wonderful introduction to Jefferson, however this book is geared towards the school age reader.

Much of the text is identical to the earlier biography.The most significant difference is the addition of dozens of illustrations, from portraits of Jefferson's friends, family, and foes, and political cartoons.

My single knock on Bernstein's book is the same knock I had on his previous work.Bernstein adamantly portrays Jefferson as a "strict separationist", which in and of itself is accurate. However he fails to recognize that what constituted a "strict separationist" 200 years ago is much different than the definition given in today's climate of political correctness gone awry. Bernstein seems genuinely perplexed that Jefferson "sent Christian missionaries to establish schools in western territories to educate Native Americans - and convert them to Christianity." As with extremists today, Bernstein fails to understand that Jefferson's actions did not violate the First Amendment in that "Congress made no law respecting the establishment of religion."

I could spend all day writing about how mixed up people are about what the First Amendment means and how it was intended by our framers, but that strays from the subject at hand.All in all, this is a great introduction for school children and should capture their interest and perhaps, lead them into more indepth study of one of our greatest leaders.

Monty Rainey
www.juntosociety.com
... Read more