Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, serving from 1801 to 1809. A principal author of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, he was a key figure in America’s founding. Born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Virginia, Jefferson was also a pioneer in education and founded the University of Virginia. His presidency included the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the United States. Jefferson is remembered for his advocacy of liberty and his contributions to American democracy, passing away on July 4, 1826.