Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826)

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Clark, Genevieve Davis Bennett (1856-1937)

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Birth Date

1743-04-13

Death Date

1823-07-04

Birthplace

Shadwell, VA

Biographical Text

Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia as part of the privileged white plantation-owning upper class. He became involved in politics during the beginnings of the American Revolution and wrote the "Declaration of Independence," widely considered to be the first of the founding documents and as one of the first successful calls for liberty. He also served as an ambassador to France, first Secretary of State, second Vice President under John Adams, and as the third President of the United States. Jefferson died on July 4th, 1826, the same day as a longtime rival, John Adams.

Thomas Jefferson married Martha Wayles in 1772. The couple had two children that survived to adulthood. After his wife's death, Jefferson began a long-term sexual relationship with a slave that was his wife's half-sister named Sally Hemmings. They had at least one child.