Overview
In this section, we offer examples of the variety of documents we work with and of the value that editorial scholarship adds to the text. Accurate transcriptions and clear annotation help a reader to make sense of a document and to understand it in its historical context. Included here is a diverse selection of documents written by or to Jefferson that can be browsed chronologically or topically. We have also chosen letters highlighting Jefferson’s many roles as statesman, politician, and president, as well as friend, family member, and plantation owner. For common abbreviations and repository symbols used, see the summary of our editorial method. To filter by topic, check a box in the menu listing in the left margin.

Credit: Library of Congress, Manuscript Division