The Works of Thomas Jefferson, 12 vols.

The definitive scholarly edition of Jefferson’s writings, launched by Julian Boyd to replace Ford’s Works. Distinguished by complete transcription, rigorous accuracy, and extensive annotation. Still ongoing, it’s the foundation of modern Jefferson studies.

A groundbreaking work challenging the historical denial of Jefferson’s relationship with Sally Hemings. Gordon-Reed exposed biases in previous scholarship (including reliance on Ford) and called for a more honest engagement with Jefferson’s personal life.

Essential for contrast: where Jefferson feared centralized power, Madison and Hamilton argued for a stronger federal system.

The clearest intellectual precursor to Jefferson’s ideas of natural rights and legitimate government.

Jefferson’s most sustained book-length work, mixing philosophy, natural science, and politics; essential companion to his letters and state papers.

Shows how Jefferson’s radical egalitarianism fit into the larger revolutionary upheaval.

Frames Jefferson between Enlightenment liberalism and civic republicanism.

A scholarly collection of essays reassessing Jefferson’s place in American political thought.

Eicholz examines the curious parallel between two pivotal works that emerged in the same year—Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence and Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations—both published in 1776. Rather than overstressing an actual influence of Smith on Jefferson, Eicholz cautions readers:…

Thomas Jefferson was a complicated figure. Essential to the start of our country and the university I attend, he is impossible to ignore. Yet, he held slaves, and at the same time said “all men are created equal.” What’s up with that?!?