About this videoOn July 4, 1776 the thirteen American colonies issued the Declaration of Independence after repeated attempts to negotiate the settlement of disputes with the British government failed. In this session, Ralph Anske examines the reasons behind the Declaration of Independence and the life of its principal author, Thomas Jefferson. Anske explains that although Jefferson owned slaves, his writing often reflects his opposition to slavery. Anske discusses the relationships between slaves and their owners in the southern colonies as well as the debate regarding any children Jefferson may have had with Sally Hemings, one of his slaves. Finally, Anske explores the legacy of racism in the South. |
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CreditsThe Founding Fathers: Colonial and Early National America (Day 4, Part I)
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