In writing his own epitaph, Jefferson chose three forward-looking, aspirational accomplishments reflecting his hope that future generations would continue to advance the American experiment in self-government.
Explore stories of how many of the descendants of Monticello's enslaved community campaigned for liberty and equality through our Getting Word Oral History website.
As a nation of immigrants, who we welcome to join the American experiment in self-government is an ongoing challenge.
Gayle Jessup White, descendant of the Hemings and Jefferson families, reflects on the determination and perseverance of her enslaved ancestors.
Professor Gordon-Reed discusses her book, On Juneteenth, with moderator and Getting Word descendant Andrew Davenport.
“A rising nation, spread over a wide and fruitful land, traversing all the seas with the rich productions of their industry …advancing rapidly to destinies beyond the reach of mortal eye.” Thomas Jefferson, 1801
The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States, ushering in an era of migration of citizens (often accompanied by those they enslaved) and immigrants from the eastern seaboard and Europe to inhabit the West.
At what cost did fulfilling the dreams of Jefferson and those who followed his vision of an "empire of liberty" come? The settlement of the West displaced the Native American population, destroying much of its culture, and the problem of slavery spreading to new territories set the stage for the Civil War.
"When clambering a mountain, we always hope the hill we are on is the last. But it is the next, and the next, and still the next." -Thomas Jefferson, 1786
A Civic Engagement Initiative sponsored by and in collaboration with The New York Community Trust – The Peter G. Peterson Fund. 
