Emperor of Liberty

A dramatic reevaluation of Thomas Jeffersons thinking on foreign policy and his record as a statesman This book, the first in decades to closely examine Thomas Jeffersons foreign policy, offers a compelling reinterpretation of his attitudes and accomplishments as a statesman during Americas early nationhood. Beginning with Jeffersons disastrous stint as wartime governor of Virginia during the American Revolution, and proceeding to his later experiences as a diplomat in France, Secretary of State, and U.S. Vice President, historian Francis Cogliano considers how these varied assignments shaped Jeffersons thinking about international relations. The author then addresses Jeffersons two terms as Presidenthis goals, the means he employed to achieve them, and his final record as a statesman. Cogliano documents the evolution of Jeffersons attitudes toward the use of force and the disposition of state power. He argues that Jefferson, although idealistic in the ends he sought to achieve, was pragmatic in the means he employed. Contrary to received wisdom, Jefferson was comfortable using deadly force when he deemed it necessary and was consistent in his foreign policy endsprioritizing defense of the American republic above all else. His failures as a statesman were, more often than not, the result of circumstances beyond his control, notably the weakness of the fledgling American republic in a world of warring empires.