Thomas Jefferson “Notes on the State of Virginia”

Notes

•   Jefferson defends the Native Americans place in the overall scheme of things.  He had slaves, but was too far in debt to free them at his death.  He was addicted to spending more money than he took in.  He was not able to free the slaves and do what he knew he should.  He tried to carry his ideals that we are created equal including Indians.

 
•   He states that the racist stereotypes that circle Europe and America are false.  He says the Indian would have the same strength as a white man on the same diet.  The Indians show bravery and are willing to fight to death.  Jefferson admits that Indian wives live a life of drudgery.

 
•   He agrees with Franklin’s statement that the Indians are more hospitable than the white man.  One hospitable Indian, Logan, clothed the naked and fed the hungry.   This parallels the parable of Matthew and the story of the sheep and the goats.  During war, Logan kept peace because of his love for the white man.  Then his entire family was killed for no reason.  Logan took revenge and killed many.  Logan was never fearful because there was no one to mourn for him.  Logan demonstrates the Indian’s honorable actions as opposed to the white man’s dishonorable actions.  Jefferson creates an awareness that American Indians are unrightfully criticized as an excuse for taking something of theirs.