The Founding Contradiction

Family Ties

The complex familial ties between the Hemings and Jefferson families reveal a tangled web of relationships. Annette Gordon-Reed explains that Sally Hemings and Thomas Jefferson were connected through Jefferson's wife, Martha, who was Sally's half-sister 1. This connection was unusual, as Martha chose to bring the Hemings family into her household rather than distancing them, which was common at the time.

Jefferson's wife and Sally Hemings were half sisters. So this connection between the Hemingses and Jeffersons really gets going through Jefferson's wife.

--- Annette Gordon-Reed

The relationship between Jefferson and Hemings was controversial, as it resembled a marriage more than a typical master-slave relationship, which was frowned upon by society 2.

   

Sally's Choice

Sally Hemings' decision to return to Virginia from France highlights the importance of family ties over personal freedom. Annette Gordon-Reed reflects on Hemings' choice, noting that her family, including her mother and siblings, were in Virginia, which likely influenced her decision 3. Despite the allure of freedom, the familial bonds and Jefferson's relatively favorable treatment of the Hemings family played a significant role in her return.

A 16 year old female raised to believe that she had some special connection to family in a way, to think about family, think about, your mother is back in Virginia.

--- Annette Gordon-Reed

Jefferson's complex relationship with Hemings continued throughout his life, and although she was never formally freed, she was treated as a free person by the community 2.