Problem: In your readings there was an opportunity to take a closer look at Thomas Jefferson and also Sally Hemings. Obviously, Jefferson occupies a significant presence in the American public sphere, but Hemings is really only seen and discussed through the lens of Jefferson. Reflecting upon what you've read, address the following prompts. How important is her story to the narrative of Jefferson's life? Setting aside Jefferson, how can we tell Heming's story on her own terms? In other words, what would you say to define her life story so that it is not entirely shaped by her relationship to Jefferson? Why was the story of Hemings and Jefferson dismissed and then hidden for so many years? How is our understanding of Jefferson and early America enhanced by presenting this material? Specifically, how does this illuminate our understanding of race, sex and power in American society?