The Bill Of Rights And Beyond: Thomas Jefferson's Perspective

Produced by the Pikes Peak Colorado Library District, this production is a good example of creative library programming. Designed to be part of a series on the Bill of Rights, the video features scholar Clay Jenkinson dressed as Jefferson answering audience questions on Jefferson's views on state sovereignty, gun ownership, the two-party system, the importance of books and libraries, the education of women, and the perennial dilemma of the separation of church and state. Jefferson's irreverent views on the personalities of his day (Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Patrick Henry and others) are portrayed with insight and wit. In the end Jefferson comes across as a great conservative, espousing the agrarian life, insisting on the right of popular revolution, but considering nothing sacred but the life of the mind. Jenkinson gives an entertaining, even enthralling performance as he takes us inside the mind of what he calls our greatest philosopher-president. In the last half hour Jenkinson doffs his wig and steps out of character to talk about how he came to play Jefferson. He also makes recommendations for further reading. Although the two hour length may make some fidgety, this impeccable production would be ideal for discussion groups or serious students of American history. At the end of the video you feel like applauding and you're genuinely sorry to part company with Mr. Jefferson. The program is a bargain at this price. Highly recommended. (S. Rees)