39 pages 1 hour read

Thomas Jefferson

Notes on the State of Virginia

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1785

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Notes on the State of Virginia by Thomas Jefferson, written in response to 23 queries from François Barbé-Marbois, provides in-depth information on various aspects of Virginia's landscape, climate, commerce, laws, institutions, and people. Jefferson describes the state's geography, agricultural products, militia, navy, Indigenous American tribes, and enslaved African Americans. The book also addresses Virginia's constitution, laws, religion, education, infrastructure, manufacturing, commerce, and historical records. The book includes racist assertions about Black people and discussions on slavery.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Thomas Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia provides a foundational look at early American thought, blending natural history, political theory, and social discourse. Praised for its insightful commentary and thorough research, it also faces criticism for its outdated and controversial views on race and slavery, reflecting Jefferson's complex legacy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Notes on the State of Virginia?

A reader captivated by early American history, political philosophy, and Enlightenment thought will relish Notes on the State of Virginia by Thomas Jefferson. Comparable to those who appreciate The Federalist Papers or Common Sense, they value insight into 18th-century perspectives on governance, society, and science.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Education

Philosophy

Classic Fiction

Topics

Education

Science / Nature

History: World

Period

American Revolution

Themes

Society: Politics & Government

Society: Nation

Society: Colonialism