Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the United States, was a man of many talents. He was not only a statesman and politician but also an inventor, architect, and scholar.
In 1784, he traveled to Paris as a representative of the United States to negotiate trade agreements with France. But that was not the only reason why Jefferson was in Paris.
Jefferson’s Personal Reasons for Going to Paris
Jefferson had always been interested in European culture and had a keen desire to learn more about it. He had a particular interest in French culture and wanted to study it firsthand.
During his time in Paris, Jefferson studied French architecture, art, music, and cuisine. He also attended lectures at the University of Paris and met with prominent French intellectuals.
Jefferson’s Love for Architecture
One of Jefferson’s passions was architecture. During his stay in Paris, he studied the classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. He visited famous landmarks such as the Pantheon and Versailles Palace to study their architectural design.
Fun Fact: Jefferson later used his knowledge of classical architecture to design his home at Monticello.
Jefferson’s Diplomatic Duties
Apart from studying French culture and architecture, Jefferson had another important reason for being in Paris – diplomatic duties. As an envoy from the United States government, he played a crucial role in negotiating trade agreements with France.
- He negotiated favorable trade terms for American goods such as tobacco and rice.
- He also secured loans from French banks for the American government.
- During his time in France, he established connections with important figures such as Marquis de Lafayette and Benjamin Franklin.
The Legacy of Jefferson’s Time in Paris
Jefferson’s time in Paris had a profound impact on his life and career. He returned to the United States with a wealth of knowledge about French culture and architecture, which he incorporated into his personal and professional life. His diplomatic work also paved the way for future trade agreements between France and the United States.
In conclusion, Jefferson’s trip to Paris was not just a diplomatic mission but also an opportunity for him to broaden his horizons and gain new knowledge. His passion for architecture and interest in French culture made his time in Paris a transformative experience that would shape his legacy as one of the most prominent figures in American history.