Final answer:
Wood points out the contradictions in Thomas Jefferson's character, with one example being his ownership of slaves while advocating for equality. The strengths and weaknesses of Jefferson's character and leadership are not explicitly mentioned in the information. Wood argues that George Washington should be considered the greatest president in American history, but evidence for this assertion is not provided. Wood explains in the introduction that the extraordinary generation of the founders cannot be replicated, but agreement or disagreement can vary based on individual interpretation.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Gordon Wood in the chapter titled 'The Trials and Tribulations of Thomas Jefferson' in Revolutionary Characters, Jefferson's character was marked by several contradictions. One contradiction was his ownership of slaves while advocating for equality and freedom.
Jefferson was part of Virginia's slaveholding aristocracy but also believed that slavery was a regrettable institution that should eventually be abolished. This contradiction between his beliefs and actions reflects the complexities of his character.
In terms of strengths and weaknesses, Wood does not explicitly mention them in the information provided. Without specific page numbers from the book, it is challenging to provide a comprehensive answer. However, based on historical knowledge, one of Jefferson's strengths was his intellect and ability as a writer, demonstrated through his drafting of the Declaration of Independence. On the other hand, a weakness could be his sometimes contradictory actions regarding slavery.
Regarding George Washington, Wood argues in the first chapter of Revolutionary Characters that he should be considered the greatest president in American history. Unfortunately, the evidence to support this assertion is not provided in the information given.
Again, without specific page numbers, it is difficult to provide a detailed answer. However, Washington's leadership during the Revolutionary War and his role in shaping the presidency are often cited as evidence for his greatness.
In the introduction of Revolutionary Characters, Wood explains that we can never replicate the extraordinary generation of the founders. He means that the specific historical context, challenges, and unique individuals of that time cannot be replicated in the present day. This is a subjective opinion, and whether one agrees or not depends on their interpretation of history and the potential for extraordinary individuals and moments in the future.