While Thomas Jefferson is widely celebrated as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, his contributions to the nascent United States extended far beyond this pivotal document. After leaving the Continental Congress in 1776, Jefferson embarked on a multifaceted career marked by significant roles in Virginia’s state government, international diplomacy, and the cabinet of the first U.S. President. His actions and ideas in these years profoundly shaped the young nation.
Return to Virginia and Championing Religious Freedom
Following his departure from Congress, Jefferson returned to his home state of Virginia and became deeply involved in state politics. He served in the Virginia legislature and collaborated closely with James Madison. Their initial significant undertaking was to dismantle the established church in Virginia. This effort culminated in the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, drafted by Jefferson and enacted in 1786. This landmark legislation guaranteed religious freedom and separated church and state, principles that later became foundational to the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.
Governorship During Wartime
In 1779, amidst the Revolutionary War, Jefferson was elected Governor of Virginia, serving until 1781. This period was challenging as Virginia faced British invasions. His governorship later became the subject of an inquiry regarding his leadership during these invasions. Although he was eventually exonerated by the General Assembly, the investigation deeply affected Jefferson, fostering a lifelong sensitivity to criticism and a lasting animosity towards Patrick Henry, whom he mistakenly believed instigated the inquiry. Jefferson described the investigation as “a wound on my spirit which will only be cured by the all-healing grave.”
Notes on the State of Virginia: Exploring a New Nation
During a brief respite from public office after his governorship, Jefferson authored his only full-length book, Notes on the State of Virginia. This work was a comprehensive exploration of Virginia’s geography, natural history, society, government, and culture. Notes on the State of Virginia is notable for its insights into Jefferson’s complex views on slavery and religion. He acknowledged the profound injustice of slavery, famously writing, “I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever.” However, the book also contained racially biased views regarding the abilities of Black people, though he conceded these perceived limitations might stem from the oppressive conditions of slavery. Regarding religion, Notes strongly advocated for religious freedom, asserting that religious beliefs were a matter of individual conscience and should not be regulated by the state. He famously stated, “it does me no injury for my neighbour to say there are twenty gods, or no god. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg.”
Diplomatic Service in France and the First Secretary of State
Jefferson re-entered public service in 1784, embarking on a diplomatic career in France. Initially serving as a trade commissioner, he succeeded Benjamin Franklin as the U.S. Minister to France. During his time in France, Jefferson immersed himself in European culture, acting as a keen observer and procurer of knowledge and goods for his home in Monticello and the United States. He sent back books, seeds, plants, architectural designs, artwork, furniture, scientific instruments, and a wealth of information, contributing to the cultural and intellectual development of the young nation.
In 1790, at the request of President George Washington, Jefferson accepted the position of the first Secretary of State under the newly formed government. His tenure as Secretary of State was largely defined by his ideological clashes with Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury. Jefferson opposed Hamilton’s policies, which he believed favored a powerful centralized government and were overly aligned with British interests. This fundamental disagreement laid the groundwork for the development of the two-party system in the United States, with Jefferson becoming a leader of the Democratic-Republican party, which advocated for states’ rights and a more agrarian vision for the nation.
In conclusion, Thomas Jefferson’s activities after the Declaration of Independence were crucial in shaping the early United States. From championing religious freedom in Virginia to navigating international diplomacy and establishing fundamental principles as the first Secretary of State, Jefferson’s post-1776 career demonstrates a deep and continued commitment to the ideals of liberty, self-government, and intellectual exploration. His contributions extended far beyond the Declaration, solidifying his place as a central figure in American history.
