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.
Ancestors Coming to America
Jeff Goldblum discovers the incredible route his grandfather had to take to enter the United States.
Marc Maron's Ancestors Suffering in Europe
Marc Maron discovers an unknown family history that could provide insight into his mother's complicated relationship with her mother.
Terry Gross on Getting Fired From Teaching
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. is surprised to learn that Terry Gross's professional life began in a place she couldn't fit — the 8th-grade classroom.
A Family's Foresight to Flee
Terry Gross discovers she only exists because of both her maternal and paternal grandparent's foresight.
Beyond the Pale Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the Jewish heritages of actor Jeff Goldblum, radio host Terry Gross, and comedian Marc Maron, uncovering previously unknown stories that show each share much more with their ancestors than a religious tradition.
A Grandfather's Imagery as a Black Man
Even today, Jeffrey Wright stands in awe of his grandfather's work ethic.
Queen Latifah Discovers Ancestor’s Emancipation Document
In this moving moment, Queen Latifah meets the woman that freed her ancestors from slavery. “People still think that one person can’t make a difference. One person made a difference to my whole entire family line.”
Family Roots in U.S Back to 1776
Queen Latifah discovers documents that reinforce her conviction to fight for what her ancestors help build.
Taking Strength from Ancestors
Jeffrey Wright shares the strength and empowerment he draws from his ancestry.
This Land Is My Land Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. reveals the unexpected family trees of entertainer Queen Latifah and actor Jeffrey Wright, redefining their sense of the black experience — and challenging preconceptions about America’s past.
Homecomings Preview
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. helps actor Sterling K. Brown, comedian Sasheer Zamata and musician Jon Batiste discover the unexpected places their ancestors once called home, providing new insight into the people and places that made them who they are today.
Jon Batiste’s Ancestor Signs Name With “X”
In this powerful moment, Jon Batiste discovers his ancestor signed his name with “X” when registering to vote.
Sterling K. Brown Discovers Rare Roots
It is a rarity to uncover a native-born African identified in the ancestry of black Americans, which is exactly what we found with Sterling K. Brown.
Sasheer Zamata's Great-Grandfather Founded the Town of Fargo
Sasheer Zamata discovers that her great-grandfather, former slave Leroy Washington Mahon, used 40 acres of his farm to a found a town for black homeowners.
Jon Batiste Ancestor Seen As "Property"
Dr. Gate reveals a document in which Jon Batiste's third great-grandfather, at age 3, is listed on a ledger as being someone’s "property."
Sterling K. Brown Learns About His Grandmother's Death
Sterling K. Brown learns that his father, who passed away when Sterling was only 10 years old, also lost a parent at a very young age.
Sterling K. Brown Recalls Last Moment He Saw His Dad Alive
Sterling K. Brown emotionally recalls seeing his Dad for the last time before his death.
Jon Batiste's Grandmother Moves to Oregon
Dr. Gates reveals a fascinating, yet little known aspect of the Africa American experience, that led to Jon Batiste's grandmother moving across the country
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