The third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, is one of America’s most emblematic Founding Fathers. His life is well known throughout the country and has been a source of inspiration for generations. Documentaries about his life are plentiful and with so many to choose from it can be daunting to know which ones to watch first. That’s why we have compiled a list of the 10 best documentaries about Thomas Jefferson to help you find the very best. From glimpses into his family life to deep dives into his presidency, these documentaries will give you a comprehensive look at the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest figures. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and prepare to dive into this fascinating subject!
1. Thomas Jefferson – Architect of America Documentary
Amongst the many great documentaries about Thomas Jefferson, one stands out for its creative approach and thoughtful analysis. The People Profiles documentary on Thomas Jefferson offers an in-depth look at this American icon and his lasting legacy. From his early years as a lawyer to his time as President, it covers all aspects of Jefferson’s life and contributions. It also features interviews with leading scholars and experts on the subject. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about Thomas Jefferson and his legacy. It offers some unique perspectives that are sure to enrich your understanding of this great American figure.
2. Thomas Jefferson Documentary
This award-winning documentary, aired on PBS in 1997, is a comprehensive look at the life and times of Thomas Jefferson. Narrated by narrator Morgan Freeman and featuring interviews with historians, this film gives an insight into the man who wrote the Declaration of Independence, served as President of the United States, and founded the University of Virginia. Viewers will gain a greater understanding of Jefferson’s beliefs on democracy, his role in the American Revolution, and his views on slavery. This documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about Thomas Jefferson and the unique legacy he left behind. The documentary also touches on some of Jefferson’s lesser known accomplishments. From being an avid agriculturist to designing furniture, this documentary reveals the many sides of Thomas Jefferson that are often overlooked. As a founding father, Jefferson played an integral role in crafting the American political system and this film honors his legacy with great respect and admiration.
3. Thomas Jefferson -The Pursuit of Liberty
4. Thomas Jefferson Documentary – Biography of the life of Thomas Jefferson
Choosing a documentary to learn more about Thomas Jefferson is an excellent way to gain insight into his life and legacy.
5. Who Was Thomas Jefferson
6. Why Thomas Jefferson Never Freed His Slaves
The Thomas Jefferson documentary series does an excellent job of giving viewers an inside look into the complicated life and career of one of our country’s longest-serving presidents. Not only does it explore his achievements, but it also delves into some of the darker aspects of his past, such as his ownership of slaves and his complex relationship with Sally Hemings.
7. A Day in the Life of Thomas Jefferson
When it comes to understanding the life of Thomas Jefferson, few other forms of media can match the power and depth of documentary films.
8. Thomas Jefferson in Film – Featuring Monticello
One of the most prominent figures in American history is Thomas Jefferson. He was the third President of the United States, drafted the Declaration of Independence and habitually wore a cravat. His life has been documented in numerous movies over the years with varying degrees of accuracy. Here are some standout documentaries about Jefferson: Thomas Jefferson (1997): This documentary examines Jefferson’s childhood, his youth in colonial Virginia, and the events which shaped him into a great leader. Thomas Jefferson: The Revolutionary Philosopher (2004): Exploring the many facets of Jefferson’s personality as a father, statesman, politician and philosopher, this film is an informative examination of the man behind the myth. Jefferson’s America (2014): This History Channel production follows Jefferson from his boyhood home in Virginia to the White House, tracing his many accomplishments and failures throughout his lifetime.
9. Was Thomas Jefferson Religious
As Americans, we often find ourselves in the middle of a heated debate about politics. We can get so caught up in our own opinions and positions that we forget to look at all sides of an issue—including Thomas Jefferson’s!
10. The battle over equity at Thomas Jefferson High School
He argued that affirmative action was necessary to close the racial gap in admissions, and that Asian students should be held to higher standards than White students. Not only is Thomas Jefferson High School worth learning about from a historical perspective, but its recent struggles with race are also very relevant today. Documentaries about this school provide viewers with an in-depth look at the history, culture, and changes it has gone through. They also shed light on issues surrounding racial and economic inequality. The award-winning documentary “Thomas Jefferson’s Uneven Legacy” is a great place to start for anyone wanting to learn more about the school. It looks back at the life of Thomas Jefferson, his influence in the foundation of the United States, and how his views are still relevant today. The documentary then dives into the history of Thomas Jefferson High School and its current struggles with race and class.
