You know, you bring up some interesting points. While I think that the
relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemmings should be
recognized, and some recognition should be given to the descendants of that
relationship, I think it also has to be remembered what the nature of that
relationship actually was...
Viewing it as a "love story" is quite a stretch, as I think about it.
Maybe it was, I'm not sure. As far as Thomas Jefferson viewing black people
as unequal or not human, I had always thought that he went back and forth on
that issue, not really deciding either way. Are there any writings that I
could read where he addresses this issue?
Oh, yes, and another thought, I don't think you could call somethint a
"love story" if one person has all the power. For example, Sally Hemmings
most likely had no say in the situation. So I'm not sure that you could
call it a love story...
Just some thoughts...
Ginny
----- Original Message -----
From: "Madiba Saidy" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, February 04, 2000 3:05 PM
Subject: Slave Rape, being billed as "Love Story" Thomas Jefferson
> In Febrary CBS will broadcast their version of the relationship between
> Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings his slave, which began when she was 14
> years old. Jefferson's writings reveal he did not consider people of
> African descent to be as "human" as Europeans. He was a slave owner until
> he died.
>
> The trailer CBS is using to promote this miniseries promotes the
> relationship as "An American Love story" and stars Diahann Carroll, Mario
> Peebles and a white (light-skinnned) hispanic Carmen Ejogo playing Sally
> Hemings. This movie is really a trivialization of what happened to many
> of our female African ancestors who were raped by their slavemasters and
> seems to be a way of vindicating Jefferson and others like him.
>
> Now this is certainly controversial since at least some of the family of
> Ms. Hemings apparently basks in the glory of being descendants of
> Mr. Jefferson, seemingly feeling honored that they have a connection to
> one of America's "founding fathers" through their enslaved
> ancestor. Thomas Jefferson's writings about slavery and African people
> indicate that he considered people of African descent to be inferior.
>
> Though I have respect for Diahann Carroll, Mario Peebles and other
> ground-breaking entertainers...they have to be held accountable also
> and made to realize the impact the roles they play have.
>
> Most African Americans have ancestors who had no choice in their relations
> with their "masters", beginning with how they were treated on the ships by
> sailors, on the auction blocks by those seeking to make purchases and in
> countless other instances. The writings of former enslaved Africans
> reveals the facts that women were targeted even if they were only young
> girls. (I repeat Sally was 14 and Jefferson's slave).
>
> Note also that many slave owners used their plantations as breeding
> farms..allowing their sons(even giving them their own private"wench"),
> other male relatives, the hired help and any "white"man who desired to sow
> their oats.
>
> Your comments or opinions on this matter are appreciated.
>
> An "American lovestory" sneak preview.
>
> The show is scheduled to air February 13 and February 16.
>
> http://www.cbs.com/now/eframe
>
> --- End Forwarded Message ---
>
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