Slavery at Monticello
How did Thomas Jefferson view slavery?
Thomas Jefferson was against slavery. He believed slavery was a “moral depravity” and a “hideous blot,” and believed that slavery was a threat to the survival of the newly founded United States. Jefferson also thought that slavery ignored peoples' right to personal liberty. These views were radical for the times.
Thomas Jefferson was against slavery. He believed slavery was a “moral depravity” and a “hideous blot,” and believed that slavery was a threat to the survival of the newly founded United States. Jefferson also thought that slavery ignored peoples' right to personal liberty. These views were radical for the times.
Contrary to Jefferson's personal views of slavery, he utilized slave labor at his Monticello plantation. To read about people who worked at Monticello, click on the links below:
Enslaved People
Free Workmen
Indentured Servants
Overseers
Enslaved People
Free Workmen
Indentured Servants
Overseers