Thomas Jefferson

Originally Aired: January 30, 1940 Cavalcade of America #172, "Thomas Jefferson," tells the story of the young Virginia statesman at a pivotal moment in American history. In June 1776, as the Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia, Jefferson seeks quiet lodgings to concentrate on important writing. With fellow Virginian Richard Henry Lee, he finds rooms at the home of Mrs. Brown, a patriotic landlady who willingly surrenders her household lead items to the Committee of Public Safety for making bullets. The peaceful domestic scene contrasts sharply with the revolutionary fervor building across the colonies. Lee and Jefferson discuss the crucial task ahead: introducing a resolution for independence to Congress. While many Tories believe the colonial uprising is merely a temporary disturbance that will soon settle, Lee and Jefferson recognize that the time has come for decisive action. Lee prepares to introduce a blunt resolution declaring independence, while Jefferson takes on the weightier responsibility of drafting a broader, inspiring document that will persuade the people and justify their break from British rule. When Lee finally presents his resolution to Congress, declaring that the colonies are and ought to be free and independent states, immediate opposition arises.