My purpose in writing this article was to counter the narrative that Jefferson’s relationship with Hemings was some grand, consensual romance even though there’s no evidence to support that. In fact, there’s very little evidence at all from Hemings because she wasn’t allowed to leave any behind. Therefore, out of respect to the victim, I think we need to at least discuss the possibility that their relationship was the horrible abuse of teenager by a middle aged man.

I’m not inclined to try to use the standards of the age to justify this action. At that time, it was common for slave owners to rape their male slaves as well as their female slaves. This is the type of thing that should be taught in school. They may have had a “decree” that made it “legal” but it still should change our perspective on how we perceive these men.

It bothers me that films such as “Jefferson in Paris” cast actresses in their 20s to portray Hemings. They need to tell the truth. Show her as she was and let the public arrive at their own conclusions.

It’s interesting how many of the people who commented on this article object to the content, but they have no problem with other articles that misrepresent the reality of the relationship between Jefferson and Hemings. I think it’s important to have an open discourse and that includes discussing whether the relationship was abusive. Thanks for the comment.