Thomas Jefferson’s death in 1826 is surrounded by strange and poignant circumstances. He passed away on July 4, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and just hours before his fellow Founding Father, John Adams.
Despite his historical significance, Jefferson’s death was slow and painful, marked by numerous health issues that began years earlier.
In 1818, Jefferson’s health began to deteriorate with severe rheumatism and painful boils, some of which likely led to sepsis.
Over the next several years, he struggled with a variety of ailments, including chronic bowel problems, urinary issues, and joint pain.
By 1825, Jefferson’s condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of an enlarged prostate and infections that caused debilitating symptoms, including severe diarrhea.
In his final months, Jefferson became increasingly confused and bedridden. His death occurred after a long period of suffering, marked by strange behavior such as repeatedly asking if it was July 4.
Jefferson’s death was not just significant for its timing; it was also notable for the fact that his last words were eerily linked to Adams’ final moments.
As Jefferson died, John Adams was on his deathbed in Massachusetts, unaware that his friend had passed away just hours earlier. Adams’ last words, reportedly, were, “Thomas Jefferson still survives.”
While Jefferson was hailed as a hero during his lifetime, his legacy has become more complicated.
As a slave owner who fathered children with his enslaved mistress, Sally Hemings, Jefferson’s contributions to American freedom are often overshadowed by his complicity in slavery. The shadow of his relationship with Hemings, and his view of slavery as a “moral depravity,” complicates how he is remembered today.
Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord in Nashville, is a music star who blends various genres like country, hip-hop, and rock. His rise to fame has been marked by a series of personal struggles and musical accomplishments.
Despite being in the music scene since 2011, his mainstream success only came after a decade of hardships, including multiple arrests and battles with addiction.
Jelly Roll (Credit: YouTube)
His breakthrough came with hits like “Son of a Sinner,” which earned him awards like the Country Music Association’s New Artist of the Year in 2023. Jelly Roll continued his success with chart-topping singles such as “Need a Favor” and “Save Me,” collaborating with artists like Lainey Wilson.
Jelly Roll’s journey to stardom also includes a stint in prison. He was first arrested at 18 for aggravated robbery, which led to a prison sentence.
He faced further legal issues in his twenties, including a conviction related to drug possession. His probation ended in 2016, after which he dedicated himself to his music and making amends.
Jelly Roll (Credit: Pinterest)
Jelly Roll is also a vocal advocate against the opioid crisis, speaking out about fentanyl and even testifying before Congress on the issue, acknowledging his past involvement in drug dealing while aiming to help combat the crisis.
He is married to Alyssa DeFord, known as Bunnie XO, a model and entrepreneur. The couple married in 2016 and have a strong presence in each other’s lives, with Bunnie often appearing at Jelly Roll’s concerts and hosting his meet-and-greets.
As of 2024, Jelly Roll is a Grammy nominee for Best New Artist, a testament to his rise from troubled beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry.
