- Categories:
- Special Interest
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- AmericanAppreciationHistorical
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every April 13
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- 🇺🇸
Thomas Jefferson Day commemorates the birth of the third U.S. President every April 13. Reflect on his profound contributions to American democracy, from authoring the Declaration of Independence to championing religious freedom. Explore historical sites, read his writings, and engage in civic discourse to honor his enduring legacy.
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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
When is Thomas Jefferson Day?
In 2027, Thomas Jefferson Day is observed on Tuesday, April 13, offering another opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of this pivotal Founding Father.
How many US Presidents were born in April?
April has been the birth month for four U.S. Presidents, a notable concentration of leadership, including Thomas Jefferson, whose birthday is celebrated on April 13.
Is Thomas Jefferson Day a federal holiday?
While recognized by presidential proclamation, Thomas Jefferson Day is not a federal holiday in 2027, maintaining normal business operations across the country.
What were Thomas Jefferson's greatest achievements?
Beyond his presidency, Jefferson’s legacy is defined by his role as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, his vision for westward expansion with the Louisiana Purchase, and his enduring commitment to education.
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.
