Thomas Jefferson
3rd President
Born: 1743 Died: 1826 Served: 1801 - 1809

Vice-President Aaron Burr
Political Party Democratic-Republican
College William and Mary
Occupation Planter-Lawyer
Birthplace Albemarle County, Virginia
Place of Burial Monticello, Virginia

Pop Quiz Facts

* 1796: Lost to John Adams in presidential election.
* 1800: Defeats Adams in presidential election, but ties with Aaron Burr. House of Representatives picks Jefferson on Feb. 17. 1801.
* 1803: Purchases Louisiana Territory from France, thus doubling size of the United States.
* 1804: Sends Lewis and Clark on an expedition to explore Louisiana Territory and beyond.
* 1804: Wins reelection.
* 1807: Bars trade with with Britain and France.

Interesting Facts

* Jefferson was the first president to shake hands with guests. Previously, people bowed to Presidents Washington and Adams.
* Jefferson's library of some 6,000 books forms the basis of the Library of Congress. They were purchased from him for $23,950.
* Jefferson designed his own tombstone and wrote his epitaph, omitting the fact that he was president of the United States.
* The U.S. Military Academy was founded during Jefferson's presidency.
* Jefferson is among the four presidents honored at Mt. Rushmore.

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