State of the Union Addresses Author:Thomas Jefferson Thomas Jefferson was a true Renaissance man. He was the principal writer of the Declaration of Independence and the 3rd President of the United States. Jefferson was known as a gifted horticulturist, statesman, archeologist, architect, author, inventor and founder of the University of Virginia. Besides being President and Vice President, Jeff... more »erson was also Secretary of State, and Minister to France. Jefferson may be one of the most intelligent men in history and his writings give the avid historian a glimpse into the depth of this incredible man.« less