Thomas Jefferson: Author of America

On September 8, 2005, noted journalist, television commentator, critic, and "partially recovered Marxist" Christopher Hitchens used wit, charm, and, occasionally, scorn to make his case for Jefferson as the key figure among the Founders in shaping America's ideals.
This talk was sponsored by Matthews Development Company.

Note: Portions of these clips contain mature language. Viewer discretion is advised.  All videos require the Windows Media Player.

 1. Introduction: "The most fascinating of the Founding Fathers" (3:16)

 2. "So many great minds . . ." the American Enlightenment (4:59)

 3. Jefferson's Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom (4:40)

 4. Jefferson and War (5:00)

 5. Jefferson's expansion of "the power and the reach of United States" (5:37)

6. A Fatal Stain: Jefferson and Slavery (5:30)