While serving as the U.S. Minister to France, Jefferson began what has been described as "shopping for a lifetime," buying furniture, kitchen utensils, books, scientific instruments, candlesticks, teapots, tablecloths, fabric, and many other items. When he arrived back in America, he would eventually have 86 packing crates shipped to him from Paris. 

In this live Q&A with Thomas Jefferson, interpreted by Bill Barker, we discuss Jefferson's approach to shopping, items he purchased both domestically and abroad, and how his shopping habits changed over time.