Review of
Instaread Summary, Analysis & Review of Jon
Meacham's Thomas Jefferson The Art of
Power
Five out of five stars
The
incredible contradictions in the personal and professional life of Thomas Jefferson
are enormous and often overlooked. That is not a criticism that can be directed
at this summary.
Jefferson
is the author of one of the most philosophically significant phrases, “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.” Yet, when Jefferson wrote this, the word “men” referred
to landed white men and excluded all females. That is what he meant, even
though it sounds far more inclusive.
The
summary also mentions the incredible contradiction of the Louisiana Purchase, a
presidential action that had no justification in the constitution. Jefferson
simply carried out the purchase of what was essentially stolen property.
Napoleon had taken it from the Spanish when he invaded and occupied the
country.
This is one of the best summaries, as it
captures so much of the essence of Thomas Jefferson, including the contradictions.
For example, he did speak out against slavery, yet did not hesitate to profit
from it in both the economic and sexual senses. If you have any interest in
history, this summary will convince you that you need to read the book.
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