Jefferson's Political Philosophy and Conduct

Jeffersonian Principles

• Emphasized natural rights and reasonable law for minority protection against oppression.

• Promoted unity between Republicans and Federalists with the phrase: "We are all Republicans, we are all Federalists."

Foreign Policy

• Advocated for "honest friendship with all nations" without entangling alliances.

Presidential Conduct

• Preferred simplicity and frugality in governance, contrasting Federalist Philadelphia.

• Established informal dining etiquette (pell-mell seating) at official events.

• Shockingly unconventional; received visitors in casual attire.

• Initiated the practice of having Congress messages read by a clerk instead of delivering them personally due to his weak voice and preference against monarchical presentations.

Personal Dichotomy

• Two contrasting aspects of Jefferson: a scholarly private citizen and a political leader forced to reverse some principles he initially supported.