Jefferson's Birthday facts for kids

Jefferson's Birthday is a special day in the United States. It celebrates the birth of Thomas Jefferson, who was the third president of the United States. People celebrate this day every year on April 13. It's a time to remember his important contributions to American history.

Who Was Thomas Jefferson?

Thomas Jefferson was a very important person in early American history. He helped shape the country we know today. He was not just a president; he was also a writer, a lawyer, an architect, and a scientist. He believed strongly in freedom and learning.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia. His family was well-known and had a large farm. From a young age, Thomas loved to learn. He studied many subjects, including history, science, and languages. He went to the College of William & Mary in Virginia. There, he studied law and became a lawyer.

A Leader for Independence

As a young man, Jefferson became involved in politics. He was a strong supporter of American independence from Great Britain. He is most famous for writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This document explained why the American colonies wanted to be free. It stated that all people have rights, like the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

President of the United States

Thomas Jefferson served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809. During his time as president, he made many important decisions. One of the biggest was the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. This deal bought a huge amount of land from France. It nearly doubled the size of the United States. This helped the country grow and explore new areas.

After the Presidency

After his two terms as president, Jefferson retired to his home, Monticello, in Virginia. Even in retirement, he continued to contribute to the country. He founded the University of Virginia in 1819. He believed that education was key for a strong democracy. He passed away on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

Why Do We Celebrate Jefferson's Birthday?

Jefferson's Birthday is celebrated to honor his life and his lasting impact on the United States. It reminds us of his ideas about freedom, democracy, and education. While it is not a federal holiday where most people get the day off, some states and organizations observe it. It's a day to reflect on the values he helped establish for the nation.