The Jeffersonian Cyclopedia: A Comprehensive Collection of the Views of Thomas Jefferson Classified and Arranged in Alphabetical Order Under Nine Thousand Titles Relating to Government, Politics, Law,

Excerpt from The Jeffersonian Cyclopedia

Why and wherefore the publication of this volume now? The answer is this: More than three-quarters of a century ago, one of the earlier biogra phers of Jefferson wrote: It would be a happy circumstance for America and for the mass of mankind if the works of Je?'erson could obtain a circula~ tion which would place them in the hands of every individual. Unfortunately, the form in which they have appeared is not the most advantageous to the accomplishment of this desirable purpose. The publication is too voluminous, and consequently too expensive; to admit of a general introduction among all classes, nor is the mode of arrangement (lie best adapted to it: rcct'on into ordinary use as a work of reference. From that distant day to the present time, no attempt has been made to arrange and classify the theories and principles of Jefierson, so as to make them available in ready reference form.... Read more Continue reading Read less