Epilogue Summary and Analysis

Scholars will likely still be arguing about Jefferson's legacies well into the 22nd century. Without a doubt, Thomas Jefferson's popularity has only increased with time. Jefferson is the most popular historical figure on the Internet.

Jefferson would disapprove of many changes that have occurred in the U.S. since his death. These include the erosion of states' rights in the Civil War, the increase in military might in the Cold War and increased urbanization. Although his writings have been used to justify racial equality, Jefferson certainly never meant them to. Along with everything else, Jefferson believed wholeheartedly in the innate supremacy of the white race.

Other changes Jefferson would approve wholeheartedly. These include the abolition of slavery and the separation of church and state to preserve religious freedom. It is ironic that this separation is enforced by the government institution that...