set out on this ground, which I suppose to be self evident, ‘that the earth belongs in usufruct to the living:’ that the dead have neither powers nor rights over it. the portion occupied by any individual ceases to be his when himself ceases to be, & reverts to the society.

—Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 6 Sept. 1789  {More}

no occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, & no culture comparable to that of the garden. but tho’ an old man, I am but a young gardener.

—Thomas Jefferson to Charles Willson Peale, 20 August 1811  {More}

An equilibrium of agriculture, manufactures & commerce is certainly become essential to our independance.

—Thomas Jefferson to James Jay, 7 April 1809  {More}

cultivators of the earth are the most valuable citizens. they are the most vigorous, the most independant, the most virtuous, & they are tied to their country & wedded to it’s liberty & interests by the most lasting bands.

—Thomas Jefferson to John Jay, 23 August 1785  {More}