This paper examines the contributions of Thomas Jefferson to the United States, and focuses upon how and why he promoted
enlightenment ideals during his public life. The
author discusses how Jefferson personified the
enlightenment in America, how he tirelessly championed enlightenment ideals and philosophies, and rejected the evils of government and society that the enlightenment exposed. He concludes that Jefferson was a talented writer, an idealistic politician, a successful farmer, a progressive architect, and the author of a vision of hope that inspired the young nation he led.