Observed annually on April 13th, National Thomas Jefferson Day is a holiday that commemorates the birthday of the third U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson.

He was born on April 13, 1743, and was not only the President of the U.S. but also the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, an inventor of several different devices, and responsible for doubling the size of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase.

On this holiday, every American is encouraged to read some of his works or to learn more about his contributions to the U.S. and the world.

The History of National Thomas Jefferson Day

This holiday was first created by Franklin D. Roosevelt when he issued Presidential Proclamation 2276. This proclamation, issued on March 21, 1938, made Thomas Jefferson’s birthday a national observance. It has been celebrated ever since.

Amazing Facts About Thomas Jefferson

We wanted to do our part to illuminate the life and work of Thomas Jefferson, so we decided to do some research and gather together some facts that everyone can use. The following facts are the ones we’ve uncovered and would like to now share with everyone.

• Thomas Jefferson sold his library of 6,500 books to the Library of Congress after it was ransacked by the British.
• Thomas Jefferson designed the rotunda for the University of Virginia and the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond.
• Jefferson invented the wheel cipher, the macaroni machine, and the “Great Clock.”
• Thomas Jefferson had six children with Martha Wayles.
• Jefferson had up to six children with Sally Hemings.
• Thomas Jefferson was the son of Peter Jefferson and Jane Randolph.
• Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826.

Observing National Thomas Jefferson Day

Observing this holiday is as easy as learning more about the man himself and his presidency. A good way to do that is through his autobiography and other history books written on the subject. People can also take the time to spread the word about this holiday using the hashtag #ThomasJeffersonDay on social media.