Thomas Jefferson was one of America's most ideologically driven presidents. Even when acting "pragmatically"—for example, in setting aside his constitutional scruples to acquire the Louisiana Territory—his decision making was driven by a compelling ideological factor. Therefore, in teaching this unit you might want to accompany an analysis of Jefferson's presidential record with a close look at his philosophy. 

 To assist in this effort, we have included two activities that focus on Jefferson's thought processes. One of these asks your students to examine the views of human nature that underlay Jefferson's democratic confidences. A second examines Jefferson's educational plans and the political purposes they served.