Jefferson-Hemings Controversy
Did Thomas Jefferson father Sally Hemings' children?
4.1 (39)
47 mins
Explore the longstanding debate surrounding Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman at Monticello. Uncover how historical records, testimony, and DNA evidence transformed the discussion about their relationship.
Ep 1:
The Room Behind the Wall
A hidden chamber at Monticello, a bloodline entangled with Jefferson's own wife, and a Parisian negotiation reveal how Sally Hemings claimed leverage no enslaved woman was supposed to have.
Ep 2:
Silence, Scandal, and a President's Ledger
Hollywood romanticized it, a scorned journalist exposed it, and Jefferson's own farm records confirmed it—yet the one man who told the truth about his mother was branded a liar.
Discussions (10)
Richie
Level 9 · 2 mo agoThe bit about Madison Hemings giving that interview and just being dismissed flat out... that happens more than people realise
Gaius
Level 10 · 2 mo agoJefferson kept his promise. All 4 of Sally's kids were freed by 21.
Billy
Level 9 · 2 mo agoSally negotiating her kids' freedom in Paris is insane to me
