To William G. Munford, 18 June 1799
Jefferson expresses his opinions on education and the improvability of the human mind in this letter to a young student who asked his advice on a proper course of study.
Education
These documents explore the value of education in an informed citizenry. Topics include Jefferson’s instruction as a young college student and lawyer, and his interest in recommending reading lists, purchasing books for libraries, supporting local academies, and developing a rigorous curriculum at the military academy, planting the seeds for his later foundation of the University of Virginia.
To Joseph Priestley, 18 Jan. 1800
Jefferson critiques changes to the College of William and Mary and solicits thoughts on a secular and modern university.
From Anne Cary Randolph, [before 24 February 1803]
Jefferson's 12 year old granddaughter accepts his invitation to become a correspondent, requests he send a French dictionary, and updates him on the schooling of her siblings.
To Anne Cary Randolph, 26 February 1803
Jefferson responds to his granddaughter's request for a French dictionary and his grandson's wish for a book of geography.
To Littleton Tazewell, 5 January 1805
Jefferson, believing that education is necessary to sustain liberty, encourages the Virginia legislature to take steps to charter a public university.