Topic: Agriculture & Farming
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Arator
In this essay, Virginia planter John Taylor considered the topic of agricultural labor. Pointing to the recent Haitian revolution, he warned that slavery could result in a bloody race war...
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B. Rush Proposes a System of Public Schools for Pennsylvania
Benjamin Rush of Pennsylvania wrote this book to promote public education in his state. Rush wanted children to receive at least a basic education at a tax-supported “free school” because...
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Codicil to Will
In this amendment to his will, Jefferson freed 5 of his 162 slaves. Two of the five were Madison and Eston Hemings, his sons by his enslaved mistress, Sally Hemings,...
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Confidential Letter to Congress
In this letter to Congress, President Jefferson explained his plan to use trade as a weapon in his effort to put more white farmers on Indian land. Jefferson wanted to...
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Drawing of Moldboard of Least Resistance
This drawing by Jefferson shows some of his calculations for his new moldboard
Article
Exploring Monticello: A Guide for Young People
An illustrated brochure developed for younger visitors to Monticello. Includes fun and interesting facts about Jefferson and his plantation, and introduces members of Jefferson's family and the enslaved community through their daily activities and work.
Lesson Plan
Forging Independence within the Confines of Plantation Life
Over the course of his lifetime, Thomas Jefferson owned over six hundred enslaved African Americans. While he only freed a small handful –either during his life, or upon his death–...
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Grapes in the Monticello Vineyard
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Indian Blood Cling Peach
Jefferson grew ‘Indian Blood Cling’ peaches at Monticello....
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