Jefferson: Political Writings

The key writings of the author of the Declaration of Independence are presented in a clear and accessible format.

Thomas Jefferson (Author), Joyce Appleby (Edited by), Terence Ball (Edited by)

9780521648417, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 9 September 1999

684 pages
21.7 x 13.9 x 4.2 cm, 0.937 kg

Thomas Jefferson is among the most important and controversial of American political thinkers: his influence (libertarian, democratic, participatory, and agrarian-republican) is still felt today. A prolific writer, Jefferson left 18,000 letters, Notes on the State of Virginia, an Autobiography, and numerous other papers. Joyce Appleby and Terence Ball have selected the most important of these for presentation in the Cambridge Texts series: Jefferson's views on topics such as revolution, self-government, the role of women and African-American and Native Americans emerge to give a fascinating insight into a man who owned slaves, yet advocated the abolition of slavery. The texts are supported by a concise introduction, suggestions for further reading and short biographies of key figures, all providing invaluable assistance to the student encountering the breadth and richness of Jefferson's thought for the first time.

Preface
Introduction
Chronology
Biographical synopses
A note on sources
Bibliographical note
1. A private man in public life
2. Natural law, natural right and revolution
3. Self-government
4. Moral sense, civic education and freedom of the press
5. The Constitutions of Virginia and France
6. The US Constitution
7. Religious liberty and toleration
8. Political parties
9. Race and slavery
10. Native Americans
11. Women (not) in politics
12. Law of Nations
13. Innovation and progress
14. Relations between generations
Appendices
Index.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]