Thomas Jefferson – In His Own Words
Because the internet is rife with quotes attributed to Thomas Jefferson that aren’t truly his words, here you will find excerpts from letters by Thomas Jefferson in his own words.
Each quote will link to the full text of Mr. Jefferson’s communication, so you can read it in its entirety and full context.
At a time when people referring to themselves as patriots often invoke the term founding fathers along with the Constitution without adequate foundation, it’s important to have objective perspective.
What better way to attain that than via the person’s own words?
Thoughts on Constitutions
The letter expressed thoughts on the Virginia state constitution but it is not unreasonable to conclude that Mr. Jefferson was making a general reference. He also reflects on how the passage of time coupled with experiences impacts one’s understanding and views.
“But I know also, that laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths disclosed, and manners and opinions change with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also, and keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy, as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors.”
Letter to Samuel Kercheval/Henry Tompkinson | July 12, 1816
Thoughts on Religion and Language
In this letter, Mr. Jefferson wrote advising his nephew in a number of areas. In today’s knee-jerk, reactionary society these words might earn him the “woke” label. Mr. Jefferson also encourages his nephew to study and learn Spanish.
His thoughts on the existence of a god are not surprising from the man who cut and pasted his own bible, discarding the many parts he deemed too steeped in piety. Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Jefferson (and other signers of the Declaration of Independence) was a deist – not a devout practitioner of Christianity.
“Shake off all the fears of servile prejudices, under which weak minds are servilely crouched. Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call on her tribunal for every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear.”
Letter to nephew, Peter Carr | August 10, 1787
Thoughts on a Free Press
if a nation expects to be ignorant & free, in a state of civilisation, it expects what never was & never will be. the functionaries of every government have propensities to command at will the liberty & property of their constituents. there is no safe deposit for these but with the people themselves; nor can they be safe with them without information. where the press is free and every man able to read, all is safe.
To Charles Yancey | January 6, 1816
Learn More
This is only the tip of Mr. Jefferson’s vast writings. The source links are housed on websites that provide access to a wealth of material. You’re encouraged to probe deeper for better insights into this talented, complex and conflicted man.
Monticello offers virtual tours and at-home activity ideas. For more virtual tours, see our K-12 Learning Resources page (last item on the accordion).
