Amna Nawaz
@PBSNewsHour·5.3M subscribers·62.2K videos
The progressive, yet racist, nature of Thomas Jefferson
Posted
July 24, 2026
Views
6,930
Likes
382
Engagement
5.51%
July 24, 2026
6,930
382
5.51%
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1:30Now PlayingThomas Jefferson's writings reveal his complicated views.
He was, on the one hand, progressive, Annette Gordon-Reed told PBS News' Judy Woodruff. Yet, his writings also reveal deeply racist beliefs.
"The interesting thing about putting these letters together and these documents together is to see how people live white supremacy, how they live race in the country," Gordon-Reed, a professor of law and history at Harvard University, said. "He has particular views about race, particular views about African American people."
In her book, "Jefferson on Race: A Reader," Gordon-Reed looks back at Jefferson's writings to see what they reveal about his views on race, slavery and the country he helped create.
She joined Woodruff for her series, Crossroads: America at 250. For the full interview, check out our YouTube channel.
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