Synopses & Reviews
An illuminating analysis of the man whose name is synonymous with American democracy. Jefferson was the originator of so many of the founding principles of American democracy. He introduced the bills separating church and state and mandating free public education. He initiated the Lewis and Clark expedition and seized on the crucial moment when Napoleon decided to sell the Louisiana Territory. In this compelling examination, distinguished historian Joyce Appleby captures all of the richness of Jeffersons character and accomplishments.
Synopsis
An illuminating analysis of the man whose name is synonymous with American democracy
Few presidents have embodied the American spirit as fully as Thomas Jefferson. He was the originator of so many of the founding principles of American democracy. Politically, he shuffled off the centralized authority of the Federalists, working toward a more diffuse and minimalist leadership. He introduced the bills separating church and state and mandating free public education. He departed from the strict etiquette of his European counterparts, appearing at state dinners in casual attire and dispensing with hierarchical seating arrangements. Jefferson initiated the Lewis and Clark expedition and seized on the crucial moment when Napoleon decided to sell the Louisiana Territory, thus extending the national development. In this compelling examination, distinguished historian Joyce Appleby captures all of the richness of Jefferson's character and accomplishments.
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. [171]-173) and index.
Synopsis
An illuminating analysis of the man whose name is synonymous with American democracy. Jefferson was the originator of so many of the founding principles of American democracy. He introduced the bills separating church and state and mandating free public education. He initiated the Lewis and Clark expedition and seized on the crucial moment when Napoleon decided to sell the Louisiana Territory. In this compelling examination, distinguished historian Joyce Appleby captures all of the richness of Jeffersons character and accomplishments.
About the Author
Joyce Appleby is professor of history at UCLA. Specializing in the study of early America, she is the author of Inheriting the Revolution. She lives in Los Angeles.
Table of Contents
A Pivotal Election -- Defining His Presidency -- Interpreting the Constitution in a Republican Fashion -- A Painful Reelection -- Contest for the West -- Foreign Policy Proves a Quagmire -- Coming to Terms with Thomas Jefferson -- Epilogue.