Thomas Jefferson Day on April 13 celebrates the birthday of Thomas Jefferson — the third president of the United States. He held office from 1801 to 1809, he was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and he was one of the most influential Founding Fathers. Jefferson is also known for his promotion of the ideals of Republicanism in the United States. During his presidency, he oversaw major events in American history such as the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Jefferson is remembered for many remarkable achievements. His most significant achievement was signing the Declaration of Independence.
History of Thomas Jefferson Day
We can only understand the significance of Thomas Jefferson Day once we understand how significant he was in the building of the United States. As a political philosopher, Jefferson associated himself with many intellectual leaders in Britain and France. Jefferson advocated for the separation of the church and state and wrote the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom.
Jefferson was renowned as, among other things, a horticulturist, statesman, architect, archaeologist, author, inventor, and founder of the University of Virginia! In the early stages of his career, Jefferson practiced law and served in the Virginia House of Burgesses. In 1794, Jefferson wrote A Summary View of the Rights of British America. This was intended as instructions for the Virginia delegates to a national congress. The pamphlet was a powerful argument for American independence. The summary also stated why Britain should relinquish its powers. The summary helped speed up the path to independence and marked Jefferson as one of the Founding Fathers of the new nation. Since Jefferson was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and a significant contributor to American political and civil culture, it was decided that Jefferson would write the first draft of the Declaration. Later on, the draft underwent some alteration but remained largely Jefferson’s work.
After Jefferson retired from public office, he founded the University of Virginia. Jefferson passed away on Independence Day, July 4, 1826. This day was also the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
Thomas Jefferson Day timeline
Jefferson is born on April 13 in the colony of Virginia.
He marries his third cousin, Martha Wayles Skelton.
He becomes president on March 4, 1801.
At the age of 76, Jefferson establishes the University of Virginia.
Thomas Jefferson Day FAQs
What is Thomas Jefferson most famous for?
Jefferson, a spokesman for democracy, was an American Founding Father, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence (1776), and the third president of the United States (1801 – 1809).
Did Thomas Jefferson serve one or two terms?
He served as the president of the United States from March 4, 1801, until March 4, 1809. After serving two terms, Jefferson was succeeded by Secretary of State, James Madison, who was also of the Democratic-Republican Party.
Why is Thomas Jefferson considered a hero?
Jefferson is considered a hero to many because he was persistent and virtuous. He worked tirelessly at shaping America to become the freedom-based country it is today. He believed in a cause to make the world a better place.
How To Celebrate Thomas Jefferson Day
Read about him
Choose books and resources to read about Jefferson on Thomas Jefferson Day. This can give you all of the information that you need to know about the former president.
Read your favorite books
Jefferson was an avid reader. His vast library contained more than 6,500 books. A great way to observe Thomas Jefferson Day is by spending some time reading.
Watch a documentary
You can observe Thomas Jefferson Day by watching a documentary on the man himself or American history.
5 Facts About Thomas Jefferson That Will Blow Your Mind
He doubled the size of the country
The Louisiana Purchase, a treaty/transaction with France, effectively doubled the size of the United States.
He helped popularize ice cream in America
Jefferson is credited with the first ice cream recipe recorded in America — six egg yolks, a half-pound of sugar, two bottles of cream, and one vanilla bean.
Jefferson had a pet mockingbird
He had a pet mockingbird that he named Dick.
He acknowledged only two White House holidays
These were Independence Day and New Year’s Day.
The Library of Congress
Jefferson sold Congress his entire personal library of 6,707 titles for $23,950.
Why We Love Thomas Jefferson Day
This day teaches us about Thomas Jefferson
It presents us with the opportunity to learn more about the third president, who was also one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.
It is a day to revise history
This is the perfect day to revise history and to brush up on your knowledge of the several statutes, bills, and declarations that have been passed on over the years.
It reminds us of the importance of a good education
Jefferson was a polymath, thinker, and avid reader. He also established the University of Virginia. Thomas Jefferson Day reminds us of the importance of education.
Thomas Jefferson Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 13 | Saturday |
| 2025 | April 13 | Sunday |
| 2026 | April 13 | Monday |
| 2027 | April 13 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | April 13 | Thursday |
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