Season 1 – Thomas Jefferson

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Ali E @RT54381469 Jun 30 It's frustrating to watch a documentary with clearly passionate, intelligent, and critical historians who make almost no mention of the impact on Indigenous peoples. Jefferson, who like all colonists of the eras, did not see Native people as humans, but as an inconvenience to be conquered and eliminated. Jefferson was not just a slave-owning hypocrite, but a genocidal one. Why do we continue to ignore the violence and genocidal ambitions emblazoned, in no uncertain terms, in our nations quintessential founding document? " the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions..." This film is another white-washed history, with just enough superficial criticism, to be palatable. Do better See more Joe T @RT89778827 Apr 29 I recently watched the History Channel’s 2025 documentary on Thomas Jefferson and came away disappointed with its balance and focus. The series heavily emphasizes his flaws, especially his role as a slave owner and his relationship with Sally Hemings, which is introduced in the opening minutes and remains central throughout. Those are important parts of his story and should be included, but they dominate the entire narrative from the very beginning. At times, it feels like it could have been titled "Jefferson and Sally Hemings," as that aspect dominates the narrative. For nearly every achievement, the series quickly moves on and spends more time on criticism. Major moments like the Louisiana Purchase lack important context, including why France agreed to sell the territory. Overall, it feels more focused on critique and modern judgment than providing a balanced historical view. I’d rate it 1.5 to 2 out of 5 and wouldn’t recommend it as an introduction to Jefferson. See more Bryan G @RT83869950 Oct 7 This is just a hit piece on Jefferson and does not portray Jefferson in the context of the time he lived, but by current morality standards. The factual elements were overshadowed by the overzealousnessness of the storytellers to paint him as an evil slave owner. See more Christian T @ctully333 Sep 10 A thoughtful, detailed biography, using some of the best historians of our time. Pearl clutchers, who wish only to think of our founding fathers as purely virtuous heroes may need to take a minute and find their open mind, as this documentary, gratefully, explores the nuanced, complicated and perhaps darker side of this great, but flawed giant of American history. But hey, we're all grown ups right? Tons of information, a great soundtrack and editing. Very enjoyable! See more Danielle N @RT57286647 07/12/2025 Disappointing. Portrays our founding father in a negative light. See more Read all reviews

Thomas Jefferson — Season 1

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