Deed from Jane Randolph Jefferson for the Conveyance of Slaves, 29 September 1773
Jefferson’s widowed mother deeds him a dozen enslaved workers and their children in payment for her debts to him.
Slavery and Race
What were the contradictions between the principles of freedom enshrined in documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the realities of chattel slavery? How did efforts to end American participation in the international slave trade affect individuals during Jefferson’s presidency? In the nation’s capital, abroad, at his home and nailery at Monticello, how did Jefferson’s views on slavery evolve as he encountered enslaved individuals as a plantation owner, and anti-slavery advocates, politicians, and international correspondents as a public figure?
To Chastellux, 7 June 1785
Jefferson comments on his Notes on the State of Virginia and expresses views on Native Americans and Blacks.
From Benjamin Banneker, 19 August 1791
A Black astronomer challenges Jefferson on the tyranny and injustice of slavery.
To Benjamin Banneker, 29 August 1791
Jefferson offers a reply to Banneker in gratitude for his almanac and expresses hopes for Black amelioration.
Deed of Manumission for Robert Hemings, 24 December 1794
Jefferson frees an enslaved worker he inherited from his father-in-law.
From Robert Pleasants, 1 June 1796
A Virginia Quaker encloses an essay promoting education for Black children.
To Rufus King, 13 July 1802
Jefferson forwards a request of the Virginia legislature to send rebellious slaves to Sierra Leone.
Statement of Account with Edward Gantt, 20 Nov. 1802
Dr Gantt's invoice for medical services provided to Jefferson, several enslaved workers, Meriwether Lewis, and staff members at the President's house.
From Thomas Mann Randolph, 30 May 1803
Jefferson’s son-in-law reports that one of the enslaved teenage workers at the Monticello nailery has struck another with a hammer.
To Thomas Mann Randolph, 8 June 1803
Jefferson asks that an enslaved teenage worker responsible for an attack at the nailery at Monticello be sold to a slave buyer from Georgia, thereby making “an example of him in terrorem to others.”