Thomas Jefferson
When Thomas Jefferson was in the temporary American capital he focused most of his letters home on his garden in Monticello. He asked his 12-year-old daughter, Mary, and 8-year-old daughter, Martha, for constant updates and logs about every detail, from the first blooms of spring to reports of the fruits killed by frost.
Jefferson complained of being "shut up in the drudging within four walls," expressing his desire to be among nature and his gardens. He reluctantly accepted the position of Secretary of State due to his love of Monticello. Jefferson took his political position as an opportunity to promote his love of nature, with a vision of America as an agrarian republic of independent farmers. He believed that agriculture and botany was critical to America's independence, ensuring self-sufficiency.
Jefferson incorporated his love of nature and his gardens into politics. For him, the preservation of nature was an important factor in the developing nation and government. He also used it as a way to escape the stress of his political position. His love of nature is still apparent today, usually noted as one of the most environmental presidents in American history.
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