France
“ In what country on earth would you rather live? - certainly in my own. Which would be your second choice? - France.”
Minister to France, 1784-1789
On arrival in Paris to relieve his mentor Benjamin Franklin as Minister to France Jefferson remarked: "I am not his replacement, only his successor."
The following five eventful years revolutionized Jefferson's thinking in virtually all aspects of his life and expanded his friend network.
Lasting Influences
“ Behold me at length on the vaunted scene of Europe!”
Architecture
As American Minister to France, 1784-1789, Jefferson was inspired by the neo-classical architectural style then in vogue in Paris, particularly the Hôtel de Salm, the Hôtel de Langeac, and the Maison Carrée.
French Cuisine
Complex Connections
The women of Paris - his daughter, Martha Jefferson Randolph; his charmer, Maria Cosway; his correspondent, Madame de Tessé; and his compatriot, Abigail Adams, as well as Sally Hemings - forged life-long connections with Jefferson.
Travel
“ Travelling is good for your health and necessary for your amusement”
Revolution
Jefferson was both witness to, and a participant in, two Revolutions: the American and the French.
