Thomas Jefferson's ChildhoodThomas Jefferson was born to the parents of Peter Jefferson and Jane Randolph Jefferson on April 13, 1743 in Shadwell, Virginia. Thomas had 10 siblings including himself. Jane Randolph Jefferson was part of the wealthiest family in the Virginia colony. Due to Jane's wealthy family Jefferson was born into economic security, education opportunities, and had a privileged status within the colony. Peter Jefferson was an inspiration to Thomas and influenced Thomas to start exploration and education. Peter Jefferson died at the age of 49, when Jefferson was only 14. Jane Randolph Jefferson died in the summer of 1776.
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Shadwell, Virginia
Thomas Jefferson's Family
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Thomas Jefferson's Education
Thomas began his education at the age of 9 in a school owned by William Douglas. Thomas learned Greek, Latin, and French while at school with Douglas. From 1758 to 1760 Thomas studied science and history. In 1760 Thomas enrolled to The College of William and Mary where he studied mathematics, metaphysics, and philosophy. He graduated from William and Mary in 1762 with high honors. Thomas studied many hours each day and continued to learn about the arts, and the practice of law.
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