Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” (“Brainy Quotes”). These words written by Thomas Jefferson inspired all the Americans that fought for independence. The Declaration of Independence contained these words that separated the colonies from Britain, creating a new country. Thomas Jefferson contributed to the start of a great country in which freedom is entitled to every citizen (“Thomas Jefferson”, O’Brien). Thomas Jefferson was an influential founding father because he wrote the Declaration of Independence, he …show more content…
During his presidency, Jefferson changed many things, showing his leadership he contained as a republican. “During the first of his two terms, Jefferson governed by his Republican ideals of limited power in the federal government” (“Thomas Jefferson”, Sisung and Raffaelle). Jefferson provided America with more land when the Louisiana Purchase gave the U.S. a western expansion. “With the 1803 Louisiana Purchase Jefferson doubled the size of the country and secured the important port of New Orleans for agrarian interests along the Mississippi River” (“Thomas Jefferson”, Sisung and Raffaelle). Jefferson’s second term ended in march of 1809, which caused the Republican Party to choose another nominee for presidency. “...Jefferson announced to friends that he intended to retire at the end of the term, causing Republicans in Congress to split into factions over nominating his successor” (“Thomas Jefferson”, Sisung and Raffaelle). Thomas Jefferson lead the country for two terms as President. Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence in 1776, claiming independence from Britain. Later, he joined the Virginia House of Delegates to serve for his home state. In 1789, Jefferson became the Secretary of State for president George Washington. In 1800, he became the third president as a Republican (“Thomas Jefferson”, Sisung and Raffaelle). Thomas Jefferson was an influential founding father because