First Ancestor in the U.S.
Laura Linney reads aloud an ancestor's confession that led to their exile in Virginia.
Criminal Kind Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the roots of actor Laura Linney and journalists Lisa Ling and Soledad O’Brien—telling them stories of tricksters, scoundrels, and outright criminals, who nevertheless laid the groundwork for their success.
Italian Roots Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the roots of talk show host Jimmy Kimmel and actors Marisa Tomei and John Turturro, introducing them to ancestors who made immense sacrifices to bring their families from Italy to America.
Slave Trade Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. journeys with film director Ava DuVernay, actor S. Epatha Merkerson, and musician Questlove to the unexpected places where their ancestors were scattered by slavery, upending their notions of African American history—and their own family trees.
Revolutionary War
Dr. Francis Collins learns his ancestor was a Patriot that served in the Continental Army in the American Revolution.
Varmus Grandparents
Dr. Harold E. Varmus expresses his gratitude to his grandparents for leaving Europe.
Take My Breath Away
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson views the 1836 estate records listing the names and "worth" of her enslaved ancestors.
Science Pioneers Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. traces the family trees of Francis Collins, Shirley Ann Jackson, and Harold E. Varmus — three pioneering scientists who’ve made dramatic contributions to our understanding of the world, all the while knowing little about their own ancestry.
Justina Machado Discovers Grandfather’s Hidden Past
Justina Machado learned her grandfather was sent to Oso Blanco, a notorious prison in the Caribbean when he was caught having a relationship with another man.
Revolutionary War
Sigourney Weaver discovers her third great grandfather was one of the youngest soldiers to join the army.
Secrets & Lies Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. helps actors Sigourney Weaver, Justina Machado, and Amy Ryan unearth surprising revelations about their family histories, forever altering how they see themselves.
Jeff Goldblum's Mother Taught Him to Stand up for Himself
Jeff Goldblum shares how his mother taught him the element of surprise and that she always had his back.
Marc Maron's Relationship with His Grandmother
Marc Maron shares the powerful role his grandmother played in this life.
Terry Gross on Feeling Culturally Jewish
Though raised Jewish, Terry Gross was never told much about her Jewish ancestors.
A Joyful and Playful Mother
Jeff Goldblum's mother liked to think of herself as a weaver of enchantment and charm.
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