Lecture Notes: Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence

Background

• During the 1760s and 1770s, American colonists claimed rights as Englishmen and free human beings.
• By 1775, Americans went to war against British rule, seeking liberty and independence.
• Factors leading to independence:
  • Battles of Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill.
  • British fleet preparing to invade New York.
  • Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense advocating for independence.

Congress and the Move Toward Independence

• May 15, 1776: Congress promotes popular sovereignty, suggesting colonies should adopt governance for happiness and safety.
• June 7, 1776: Richard Henry Lee proposes a resolution for independence.
• A committee is formed to draft a declaration, featuring John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, etc.

Thomas Jefferson's Role

• Jefferson, 33, chosen to draft the Declaration of Independence due to his writing skills and commitment to liberty.
• Background:
  • Studied at the College of William and Mary, mentored by George Wythe.
  • Entered Virginia House of Burgesses in 1769.
• Wrote A Summary View of the Rights of British America in 1774, arguing for liberty and self-governance.
• Known for his clear and persuasive writing; praised by many, including John Adams.

Drafting the Declaration of Independence

• Jefferson utilized documents like George Mason's Virginia Declaration of Rights for ideas.
• Well-versed in classic republican and Enlightenment thinkers, e.g., Aristotle, Cicero, Locke.
• Adams and Franklin reviewed his draft, making minor edits.
• July 1-2, 1776: Declaration presented and debated in Congress.
• July 2, 1776: Congress adopts Lee’s resolution for independence.

The Declaration of Independence

• Emphasized liberty and self-government.
• Asserted that rights come from nature and God, not government.
• Declared principles of equality and unalienable rights: "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

Compact Theory of Government

• Sovereign people form a republic based on consent.
• People have the right to alter or abolish government if it fails to protect natural rights.
• Jefferson's principles included in the Declaration.

Legacy

• Delegates pledged their lives, fortunes, and honor to support the Declaration.
• Jefferson's subsequent roles: governor of Virginia, minister to France, secretary of state, vice president, president.
• Jefferson regarded the Declaration as one of his greatest achievements.
• Sought to promote global freedom and liberty.