
When It Occurs
Every April 13th
Timeline
Days Passed (670)
# Hashtags
#NationalThomasJeffersonDay #AmericanLeader
Every year on April 13, National Thomas Jefferson Day pays tribute to the birthday of the third U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson. Born on April 13, 1743, Jefferson held not only the esteemed position of U.S. President but also played a pivotal role as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Additionally, he showcased his ingenuity as an inventor and significantly expanded the United States through the Louisiana Purchase.
On this special day, all Americans are urged to delve into his literary works or explore more about his noteworthy contributions to both the United States and the world.
Who Was Thomas Jefferson?
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. He was a Founding Father of the United States, known for his pivotal role in drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Jefferson served as the third President of the United States from 1801 to 1809, and he was also the first Secretary of State under President George Washington.
Beyond his political achievements, Jefferson was a Renaissance man with wide-ranging interests and accomplishments in areas such as architecture, science, education, and agriculture. He was the founder of the University of Virginia and a strong advocate for public education.
History and Origins of National Thomas Jefferson Day
National Thomas Jefferson Day was established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1937 to honor Jefferson's contributions to the United States. The day is observed on April 13th each year, marking Jefferson's birthday.
The day is an opportunity to reflect on Jefferson's role in the founding of the United States, his vision for the nation, and his influence on the development of American democracy. It also serves as a time to explore and discuss the complexities of his legacy, including his views on slavery and his ownership of enslaved people.
Why Celebrate National Thomas Jefferson Day?
- To Honor a Founding Father: Recognize and appreciate the contributions of Thomas Jefferson to the founding of the United States and the shaping of its government.
- To Reflect on American Ideals: Jefferson's writings, including the Declaration of Independence, articulate key American ideals such as liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness.
- To Explore His Legacy: Use this day to engage in discussions about Jefferson's complex legacy, including his achievements and the contradictions between his ideals and his actions, particularly regarding slavery.
How to Celebrate National Thomas Jefferson Day
- Read the Declaration of Independence: Revisit the document that Jefferson is most famous for drafting, and reflect on its significance in American history and its continuing relevance today.
- Visit Monticello: If possible, visit Jefferson's home in Virginia, Monticello, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Virtual tours are also available for those who cannot visit in person.
- Learn About Jefferson’s Life: Read biographies, watch documentaries, or explore online resources to learn more about Jefferson’s life, achievements, and impact on the United States.
- Engage in Civic Activities: Participate in activities that promote civic education and engagement, such as visiting a local government meeting, volunteering, or discussing the principles of democracy with others.
- Reflect on Jefferson’s Legacy: Consider both the positive and negative aspects of Jefferson's legacy, including his contributions to American democracy and his ownership of enslaved people.
Key Contributions of Thomas Jefferson
- Drafting the Declaration of Independence: Jefferson’s most enduring legacy is his role as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, a document that articulated the colonies’ reasons for seeking independence from Britain and outlined the principles of individual rights and government by consent of the governed.
- The Louisiana Purchase: As President, Jefferson oversaw the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States and opened up vast territories for exploration and settlement.
- Founding the University of Virginia: Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819, reflecting his belief in the importance of education for the preservation of liberty and democracy.
- Architectural Influence: Jefferson was also an accomplished architect, designing Monticello, the Virginia State Capitol, and other significant buildings that reflect his neoclassical style.
Complexities of Jefferson’s Legacy
- Views on Slavery: Jefferson owned over 600 enslaved people throughout his lifetime, and his relationship with slavery is a significant and controversial aspect of his legacy. While he expressed opposition to the institution of slavery in some of his writings, he also profited from it and did not take significant action to end it.
- Sally Hemings: Recent historical research has confirmed that Jefferson likely fathered several children with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman at Monticello. This aspect of his life has sparked important discussions about power, consent, and the realities of slavery.
- Advocate for Religious Freedom: Jefferson was a strong advocate for the separation of church and state, famously writing the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, which influenced the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Why People Reflect on National Thomas Jefferson Day
- Historical Impact: Jefferson’s ideas and actions have had a lasting impact on the United States, influencing its government, legal system, and national identity.
- Educational Opportunity: The day offers an opportunity to educate oneself and others about the complexities of history, including the achievements and moral contradictions of historical figures like Jefferson.
- Celebration of American Ideals: Many Americans see this day as a chance to celebrate the ideals of liberty, democracy, and education that Jefferson championed.
Suggestions for Commemorating National Thomas Jefferson Day
- Host a Discussion Group: Organize a discussion group or book club focused on Jefferson’s writings, including the Declaration of Independence, or explore the broader themes of democracy, liberty, and equality.
- Visit Historical Sites: Explore other historical sites associated with Jefferson, such as the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C., or the Virginia State Capitol.
- Explore Educational Resources: Use educational resources from organizations like the Thomas Jefferson Foundation or the Library of Congress to learn more about Jefferson’s life and legacy.
National Thomas Jefferson Day is a day to honor one of America’s most influential Founding Fathers, to reflect on the ideals he espoused, and to engage with the complexities of his legacy. Whether through reading, visiting historical sites, or discussing the principles of democracy, this day encourages a deeper understanding of the man who helped shape the United States.