This seminar takes a close look at George Washington and Thomas Jefferson as two of the most influential founders of the United States. It will examine their personal lives and public careers in an effort to understand the human beings behind the myths and legends that have enveloped them. (No, young George did not chop down his father’s cherry tree, nor did he throw a silver dollar across the Potomac.) The seminar will also place Washington and Jefferson in the context of their times and the issues they faced: the conflict with Great Britain over taxes and colonial rights, declaring independence, establishing a new nation, and slavery.