the cambridge companion to thomas jefferson
this companion forms an accessible introduction to the life and work of thomas jefferson third president of the united states and author of the declaration of independence . essays explore jeffersons political thought his policies towards native americans his attitude to race and slavery as well as his interests in science architecture religion and education . contributors include leading literary scholars and historians ; the essays offer up to date overviews of his many interests his friendships and his legacy . together they reveal his importance in the cultural and political life of early america . at the same time these original essays speak to abiding modern concerns about american culture and jeffersons place in it . this companion will be essential reading for students and scholars of jefferson and is designed for use by students of american literature and american history .