The Essential Jefferson Edited, with Introduction by JeanM Yarbrough

Through substantial selections from Jefferson's writings-including his earliest writings, Notes on Virginia, and key public papers and personal correspondence-this volume traces the development of his thinking on such fundamental issues as republicanism, constitutionalism, slavery, and the separation of religion from politics. Footnotes identify Jefferson's correspondents and provide useful context.

"The publication of The Essential Jefferson is a welcome addition to the fine American Heritage Series published by Hackett Publishing. . . . Yarbrough's judicious selection of key Jefferson documents and its economical price make [this book] ideal for the classroom. . . . In the post-September 11 era, an understanding of the thought of America's first philosopher of democracy is more essential now than at any time in America's history-including its founding era. Anyone interested in understanding democracy would be wise to read The Essential Jefferson."
-Jeffrey D. Hilmer, Perspectives on Political Science