Descendants of Thomas Jefferson are confronting the complicated legacy of the nation's third president, grappling with history and their sense of belonging.
Jefferson, a principal author of the Declaration of Independence, also enslaved hundreds of people throughout his life. This duality continues to be a focal point for his descendants as they navigate their family history and its connection to the broader narrative of the United States.
The reflections come as the nation itself continues to examine its founding principles and the role of its historical figures, particularly concerning slavery and its enduring impact. The ongoing dialogue among Jefferson's descendants highlights the personal and familial dimensions of this national reckoning.