A true renaissance and enlightenment era man, Jefferson was a philosopher, naturalist, scientist, architect, inventor, musician, and writer. A sensitive, gentle, and thoughtful man, he also had a less attractive side. Although he wrote about the evils of slavery, he neither freed nor educated his own slaves. Despite inheriting substantial property, he was a poor financial manager who died deeply in debt. He tried to appear above politics, but engaged in much behind-the-scenes politicking. While extolling the virtues of the common man, his own tastes where those of the elite.

Although one of the most important public figures in the history of America, Jefferson genuinely preferred a quiet, scholarly life on his Virginia estate. Like John Adams, he died on the Fourth of July – exactly 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.