You are probably aware of the new book by Henry Wiencek that posits that Jefferson became aware of the economic advantages of slavery and thus became a proponent of the "peculiar institution". Jefferson's financial difficulties are historically recognized. There is also the new book by John Meacham which does not concern itself overly much with slavery. The Washington Post review of Wiencek was negative. Now into the controversy comes a blistering op ed article by Paul Finkelman, The Monster of Monticello in Saturday 12/1 New York Times.
Finkelman asserts Jefferson had a consistent view of the "negro" as inferior and was a harsh master selling slaves away as punishment. The only slaves he freed were the children of Sally Hemings.
The article is heavy with quotes from Jefferson's own writings. The author is professor at Albany Law School and author of Slavery and the Founders:Race and Liberty in the Age of Jefferson.