... immediately set out to replace it with a more extensive li- brary, one that would encompass virtually the whole of recorded knowledge. And in spite of the disruptions of the ensuing revolution, Jefferson noted in 1783 that he had acquired the remarkable total of 2,640 volumes. When he departed the following year for Europe he looked forward to greatly expanding his library ... historical developments and intellectual phenomena. This is what Arthur Bestor meant when he referred to Jefferson's catalog as a "blueprint" of his mind. In the ordering of his books on American geography, for exa...

• Word Count: 4278
• Approx Pages: 17
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School