The Jefferson - Hemings ControversyHistory on trial Main Page

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It's time to reflect. First, after reliving the controversy episode by episode here in our miniseries, do you believe Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings had a sexual relationship? If so, what kind was it -- rape, coercion, consent, seduction, love, some combination, something else? If so, what convinced you? If not, why don't you believe it? What's the source of your reasonable doubt? Second, after reliving the controversy here, what significance does it have? Why has it stayed alive for over 200 years? What can we learn from it? What impact has studying the controversy had on you? Should it continue to be studied? In short, now that the show is over, make meaning. And talk back.