How did John Locke influence Thomas Jefferson?

Locke's classical liberal ideals hugely influenced Thomas Jefferson, particularly noticeable in the preamble to the Declaration of Independence. read more

John Locke's ideas about life, freedom, government and property ownership were major influences on Thomas Jefferson's writings, including the United States Declaration of Independence. In fact, the words "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" were borrowed almost in entirety from earlier writings by Locke who wrote treatises about government. read more

John Locke was a huge influence on all of Thomas Jefferson's philosophical thoughts and ideals. If you research anything on Locke, you can see where many of Jefferson's ideas and such came from. read more

John Locke perceived government as one that should benefit all of society and the people (commonwealth) of that society. Much of the Declaration and other writings of Thomas Jefferson were influenced (mostly plagiarized) by John Locke's writings. read more