Notes on the State of Virginia

What does Jefferson observe about the change of climate in Virginia? Does he ascribe a cause to it?

How does Jefferson propose to reform the instruction at the College of William and Mary? From this, what conclusions can you draw about Jefferson’s educational philosophy?

Notes has been described as “contain[ing] Jefferson’s most powerful indictments of slavery” while also being “a foundational text of racism” (Forbes, Robert. “Notes on the State of Virginia (1785)” Encyclopedia Virginia, 2021). How can such contradictory elements of his life be reconciled? How would you characterize Jefferson’s views on race on the whole, in the context of his time and place?

Why does Jefferson bring up the incident of the Iroquois chief Logan? What does it demonstrate about Indigenous Americans?

How do Jefferson’s views of Indigenous Americans compare with his views of African Americans?

Discuss two cases where Jefferson mentions states other than Virginia. Why does he mention them, and what lessons does he think can be drawn from them?

Do you agree with Jefferson that “the legitimate powers of government extend to acts only as are injurious to others” (159)? Craft an argument that the government should take an interest in the public welfare as well as preventing harm.

How does Jefferson think Tories (Loyalists) should be treated? How does this compare with his views on freedom of conscience?