Thomas Jefferson Essay examples -- essays research papers

Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743 to Peter and Jane Jefferson. His exact place of birth is not known. But it is believed to be about five miles outside of Charlottesville. He had ten brothers and sisters, but many of them died very young. Jefferson was one of two surviving sons. He was sandy-haired, tall, and awkward. His nickname was â€Å"Long Tom.† He really enjoyed outdoor activities, especially riding, shooting, and canoeing. Jefferson was also great musician and a diligent worker who loved to study. His father impressed upon him a love of reading and writing. Although he was not a great public speaker, Jefferson was a very eloquent writer. After his father’s death, Jefferson left for school in Williamsburg. He fell in love there many times, but did not marry until he entered law school. He met and fell in love with a twenty-one year old widow named Martha Skelton, they married in 1772. The couple had six children, but three died in infancy. By all accou nts, they had a very happy marriage. â€Å"The young couple was exceedingly happy and exceedingly busy†¦[they were] gay and loving†(Padover, 23). Early in their marriage they were very wealthy. The Jefferson’s were one of the largest land owners in Virginia by the time Tom was in his late twenties. Partly because of Tom’s hard work, but mainly because of the large amount of land and money left to them by Martha’s father in his will.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In his thirties, Jefferson was Virginia’s delegate to congre...