Revolutionary ideas had become familiar to Brazilian students at European universities by the late 18th century. At the time of this document's creation, Thomas Jefferson was the United States envoy to France. In Marseilles on May 4, 1787, Thomas Jefferson wrote a letter to John Jay, United States Secretary of State. Based on the information provided at the beginning of the letter, Jefferson was in the area for the purpose of gathering intelligence on trade matters and to learn more about European rice farming. He states in his letter: "The interest of the mass of our compatriots in agriculture... to enable them to adapt their productions to the market, to show them the markets and to strive to obtain favorable reception conditions, is in the line of my duty." While Jefferson was carrying out his ordained duties, he was approached by a Brazilian student in Montpelier who requested U.S. support for Brazilian independence. In his letter to John Jay, Thomas Jefferson describes the situation of Brazil, the disposition of Brazilians to start a rebellion for independence, and its natural resources. This letter contains Jefferson's account of his communications with the native and his discussion with a Mexican before his meeting with the Brazilian. This letter is from the first person point of view. The advantage of this point of view is the ability to listen to Thomas Jefferson's thoughts and approach the situation from his point of view. However, since Jefferson is the narrator, this source cannot be considered entirely objective. The reliability of the report must be questioned. For example, in his letter to John Jay, Jefferson includes an excerpt from the letter he received... in the middle of the paper... K. Manchester is an authority on the history of Brazil and its relations with Great Britain. Great Britain. In an article titled “The Recognition of Brazilian Independence,” Manchester argues, “the struggle for independence in Brazil was decisively influenced by the intimate and unique ties that united Portuguese America with Europe”; independence was finally won by diplomacy. In his letter to John Jay, Thomas Jefferson cautiously explores the possibilities of engaging in war with Portugal for Brazilian independence and recognizes that the colony cannot lead a revolution without the help of a powerful nation. Brazil considered the North American Revolution a precedent for its country. Jefferson argued that the United States was in no condition to engage in war. Jefferson's letter helps discredit the United States as Brazil's primary benefactor in this period.