In the 18th century, America was struggling with its independence from Europe and trying to become a strong country. In terms of government, there was no question of a monarchical government. Many people saw a great opportunity to get involved and come up with ideas that will make America the country of choice. One of these men was the 3rd President and member of the original Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson. While most Americans consider Thomas Jefferson to be an honest and honorable man, he was plagued by the moral contradiction of having had children with one of his slaves, Sally Heming, which sparked much controversy . As a result of his action, Jefferson's righteous attitude is called into question and shows how hypocritical he is. Peter Jefferson, a planter turned legislator in the Virginia House of Burgesses, and Jane Randolph, daughter of a wealthy, distinguished Virginia family, were the parents of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was born on April 3, 1743, on Shadwell, his family farm in Albemarle County, Virginia. Growing up, he was taught discipline and perseverance. His father taught him to read, write and also practice many outdoor activities. However, he soon had to leave his childish behavior behind and, without warning, become the man of the house. 1757 Thomas Jefferson, 14, must deal with the death of his father. As an older man, Thomas Jefferson now had responsibilities to his younger brothers and sisters. Unable to enjoy his youth as he once did, Jefferson found satisfaction in horseback riding, playing his instruments, and walking in the company of his sister Jane. Like most young men of that era, he attended private schools and received the ..... . middle of paper......slavery. (DNA proves Jefferson's paternity of children of slaves) (Brief article). " Time, November 1998. Harley, Sharon. The Times of African-American History. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1995. Jefferson, Thomas. "Declaration of Independence." July 1776. Kutler, Stanley I. "Dictionary of American History." Declaration of Independence 1776. Vol. 10. New York: Charles Scribner Sons, 2003. Presidential Profile for Students. . Thomas Jefferson. Presidential Profile for Students. Farmington Hills, MI, 2000. Robert , Washington, DC: National Geographic Society, 2002. Weisberger, Bernard A. "Jefferson's Mistress? (President Thomas Jefferson's Alleged Affair with Slave Sally Hemings)." ,Owen. “The Defense of Knowledge in the Sally Hemings Controversy.” Objectivity and Its Discontents, 86.