Born as a Virginian Patriot, Thomas Jefferson was an accomplished author, statesman, scientist, artisan, and educator. Young Jefferson attended the College of William and Mary in Pennsylvania and during his time there became friends with many other colonial leaders. After Jefferson graduated from William and Mary he studied law and eventually entered politics he became a member of the House of Burgesses in Virginia and was a also chosen to draft the Declaration of Independence. …showed first 75 words of 241 total…

…showed last 75 words of 241 total…continued his research and studies in mathematics, conducted experiments in scientific farming, played the violin, collected paintings, and read very intensely. Jefferson believed in free education and helped establish the University of Virginia and designed its current curriculum and campus. He was also against slavery and released his own slaves at the time. Jefferson eventually died on the Fourth of July in 1826 but was and is still recognized as one of the nation's greatest leaders.