Science
DNA analysis of hair strengthens evidence Thomas Jefferson fathered children with Sally Hemings
Researchers say the odds Jefferson fathered neither Madison nor Eston Hemings are under one in a thousand
The short version
- A 15-year investigation led by Smithsonian scholar Richard Kurin used DNA extracted from a lock of hair cut on Thomas Jefferson's death day to assess paternity claims.[NPR]
- Genetic modeling determined that the likelihood Jefferson fathered neither Madison Hemings nor Eston Hemings was less than one in 1,000.[Fox News]
- The Thomas Jefferson Foundation stated the findings reinforce the existing historical record rather than rewriting it.[Fox News]
Key facts
- DNA extracted from a lock of hair labeled as Thomas Jefferson's, cut the day he died on July 4, 1826, yielded genetic material for sequencing.[NPR]
- Statistical modeling from the genetic analysis found the probability that Jefferson fathered neither Madison Hemings nor Eston Hemings was under one in 1,000.[Fox News]
- Smithsonian Institution scholar Richard Kurin led the paternity investigation over a 15-year period.[NPR]
- Earlier in the investigation, hair strands located inside Jefferson's Bible were tested and determined not to belong to him.[NPR]
- The Thomas Jefferson Foundation said the analysis reinforces the established historical record rather than rewriting it.[Fox News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.