Episode 44: Thomas Jefferson

In this episode of pplpod, we take a deep dive into the life and career of Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States. From his role in shaping the ideals of liberty and democracy to his presidency, which oversaw the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Jefferson’s story is one of ambition, complexity, and lasting influence.

We explore his contributions as a statesman, philosopher, and architect of American democracy, as well as the contradictions of his legacy that continue to spark debate today.

Keywords: Thomas Jefferson, founding fathers, Declaration of Independence, third President of the United States, Louisiana Purchase, Lewis and Clark Expedition, American Revolution, Monticello, U.S. history, American democracy, constitutional history.