I'm confident that Mr. Jefferson would likely deflect any notice of his birth to a discussion of such passage of time as a measure of the progress of the nation founded and secured under his watch.

Undoubtedly, he would be shocked at our growth and strength. He would not be surprised by the divisions and animus in our policy and politics. But most importantly, as an eternal believer in the potential of man, he would still believe that Americans could collectively overcome all, and that there was so much more yet to come.

Happy Birthday Th:Jefferson and thank you.