Thomas Jefferson‘s accomplishments as a Founding Father of the United States are unmatched. He drafted the first version of the Declaration of Independence, founded the University of Virginia, and was America’s third President.

His Monticello plantation estate in Charlottesville, Virginia, remains central to his legacy. Jefferson enslaved approximately 400 people there, including siblings James and Sally Hemings. Jefferson reportedly fathered six children with Sally.

James Hemings became Jefferson’s Chef de cuisine and was professionally trained in Paris. He not only cooked delicious meals for Jefferson, but also played an integral role in bringing many foods Americans love today to the United States.

James Hemings was Jefferson’s slave

Hemings was born in 1765 and was initially owned by the father of Martha Jefferson (Thomas’ wife). When he passed away, Thomas inherited Hemings, as well as his mother and several of his siblings.

They were transferred from his father-in-law’s plantation to Monticello. Hemings later became a valet for Jefferson while he served as Governor of Virginia. In 1781, he protected Jefferson’s wife and children when British troops invaded Richmond, Virginia.

Hemings would then travel to France with Jefferson in May 1784, when Jefferson served as the U.S. Minister to France. In Paris, Jefferson had Hemings trained in........

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