Should his relationship with Sally Hemings influence how we view Jefferson and his place in American history? If no, why not? If yes, how should they influence how we view him?

 

Sally Hemings was a slave who was owned by President Jefferson. Documents revealed that President Thomas Jefferson had a sexual relationship with Sally Hemings despite being a slave. The relationship with Sally Hemings should influence how we view Jefferson and his place in American history. The relationship should influence the character and attitudes towards women and individuals that are helpless in American society.

Step-by-step explanation

Thomas Jefferson should be considered as an inhuman individual having to take advantage of the helpless individuals under his watch. Sally Hemings was a slave under Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson owned slaves despite the calls to ensure an end to slavery. Thomas Jefferson had a sexual relationship with women under his watch yet they were slaves which is considered unjustified to a leader of his calibre. The behavior of Thomas Jefferson rarely qualifies an individual to become a respected individual in a position of leadership. Lack of accountability and irrationality are issues that should be prioritized while making judgements related to a leader in a position of power such as Thomas Jefferson.