"Thomas Jefferson occupies a special niche in the hagiology of American Founding Fathers. His name is invoked for a staggering range of causes; statists and libertarians, nationalists and States' righters, conservatives and radicals all claim his blessing. In this book, Forrest McDonald examines Jefferson's performance as the nation's leader, evaluating his ability as a policy-maker, administrator, and diplomat." --Publisher.

Includes index.

The faithful and the crisis of faith -- The republican tack: At home, 1801-1803 -- The republican tack: Abroad, 1801-1803 -- Turbulence in domestic waters: 1804-1805 -- Turbulence in European waters: 1805-1806 -- The raging storm: 1806-1807 -- Shipwreck: 1808 -- Epilogue: The crisis and the faith.