Journey to 250: Virginia ~ Mother of Presidents 6
What could you accomplish if you only went to school for eleven weeks a year? Read about this week’s presidential personality and find out some of the things he was able to do. As we continue on our “Journey to 250,” we are introduced to a personality who helped the United States double in size. Find out how!
Journey to 250 Presidential Clues
I was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. I came from wealthy parents, especially on my mother’s side—one of the wealthiest families in King George County. Early on, I excelled in my education, attending Campbelltown Academy, one of the best schools in Virginia at that time. I was 11 years old when I began school and only attended 11 weeks out of the year! This proved to provide plenty of time for study, because when I entered the College of William and Mary, I immediately began taking advanced courses. I went on to study law under someone you may have heard of—Thomas Jefferson. This helped advance my political career, with some of my public service including Governor of Virginia, as well as ambassador to France, appointed by none other than George Washington!
Speaking of France, I participated in the negotiations on the largest expansion in the U.S.—the Louisiana Purchase.
In spite of some difficulties, I was able to accomplish some great things during my life, the main achievement being serving as President of the United States.
When I was just 16 years old, both of my parents died, leaving me with the responsibility of caring for my younger siblings, all while I was attending the College of William and Mary. This was just one example of many challenges I was able to overcome. No matter what life brings your way, work hard and you can accomplish big things!
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United States Expansion Activity
The presidential personality of the week helped with the largest expansion of the United States, the Louisiana Purchase. With a parent, research the Louisiana Purchase and answer the following questions.
- From what country did the United States purchase this land?
- How many square miles of land were purchased?
- How many states were added to the United States through this purchase?
- How much did the United States pay for the land?
- What date was the Louisiana Purchase Treaty signed?
Who am I?
(see answer below)
ANSWER:
Who Am I? President James Monroe
Brandi Wade
Enjoy this special Journey to 250 article?
To view the previous weeks of this insightful blog series and Virginia Presidents, visit our HEAV “Journey to 250” blog series.
