History by a Hair: Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings & Solving a 200-Year-Old Mystery
Solving Year-Old Mystery: History by a Hair is Richard Kurin’s account of a genomic investigation into the long-running question of Thomas Jefferson’s relationship to Sally Hemings and the paternity of her children. It follows a strand of hair found in Jefferson’s Bible and describes the scientific and historical work behind the inquiry.
At a glance
- Narrative centers on a genomic investigation prompted by a hair found in Thomas Jefferson’s Bible.
- Connects DNA research with the Jefferson–Hemings controversy, slavery, race, and the historical record.
- The listing describes a fifteen-year investigation involving DNA scientists, archaeologists, genealogists, forensic experts, and descendants.
Reference price: $35.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines scientific investigation and historical narrative around a specific, consequential question.
- The stated scope includes descendants and specialists from several fields, offering more than a narrowly technical account.
Technical specifications
7 specifications| Publisher | Crown |
|---|---|
| Publication date | September 22, 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 432 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 979-8217088508 |
| Weight listed | 1.36 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.33 x 1.39 x 9.52 inches |
What to know before buying
- The listing presents the investigation’s answer as conclusive, but this is the publisher’s description of the book, not an independent assessment of the evidence.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings, and early American history.
- Readers looking for a narrative account of genomics applied to a historical question.
- Readers exploring the intersections of slavery, race, family history, and American memory.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
79% 79% - 4 stars
11% 11% - 3 stars
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Aggregate ratings are mostly in the top two star categories, with some three-star ratings. This suggests generally favorable reception among raters but does not explain what they liked or found wanting. There is no supplied written feedback to clarify how the narrative handles its historical and scientific subject matter.
Frequently asked questions
What is History by a Hair about?
It recounts a genomic investigation into the Jefferson–Hemings controversy, beginning with a hair found in Thomas Jefferson’s Bible.
How long is the book?
The listing gives a print length of 432 pages.
Who published the book?
The listed publisher is Crown.
What subjects does the book cover?
The description connects genetics and historical research with Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings, slavery, race, and family history.
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