On the recordApril 13, 2018
Today we commemorate the birthday of a monumental figure in our Nation's history, Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson, who was our third President, was the principal author of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, and is known as one of the country's founding farmers--Founding Fathers. He was a founding farmer also. Today marks the 275th anniversary of his birth. He played a monumental role in shaping American politics. While his legacy is not without complication, Thomas Jefferson projected a down-to-Earth attitude and desired to be seen as a common man. An intellectual, architect, philosopher, musician, and essayist, he was anything but common. He founded the University of Virginia in 1819. The university has kept the Jeffersonian values--discussion, collaboration, and enlightenment--relevant today. Its mission is to develop tomorrow's leaders and to ensure that they are well prepared to help shape the future of the Nation and the world. Students in Charlottesville will use Founder's Day to reflect on Thomas Jefferson's legacy and also acknowledge the growth that has been made in its history. Mr. Speaker, on this day, we remember a Founding Father, Thomas Jefferson, and all the contributions he made to this great Nation. ____________________
