Ep 8. The British Invasion

In season 2 episode 8 of Finding Your Roots, titled "The British Invasion," host Henry Louis Gates, Jr. delves into the ancestry of three notable figures who made their mark on American culture during the height of the British music invasion in the 1960s. The episode focuses on Sting, Robert Downey Jr., and Sally Field, revealing surprising discoveries about their family histories that shed light on their personal and professional journeys.

The first segment focuses on Sting, the celebrated British musician known for his work with The Police and as a solo artist. Gates uncovers the musician's roots in rural England, tracing his lineage back to his 9th great-grandfather, who served as a justice of the peace during the 17th century. The episode highlights how Sting's political activism and concerns about social justice may be rooted in his family's history of public service. Additionally, the episode explores how Sting's family history may have influenced his approach to music and his interest in exploring different genres and cultures.

The second segment delves into the ancestry of Robert Downey Jr., the actor known for his roles in films such as Iron Man and Tropic Thunder. Gates uncovers surprising details about Downey Jr.'s family history, including revelations about his ancestors' involvement in the American Civil War. The episode also sheds light on Downey Jr.'s family history of addiction and how this may have informed his own struggles with substance abuse. Additionally, the episode explores the actor's connection to several notable figures from the 19th and 20th centuries, including Mark Twain and Charlie Chaplin.

The final segment explores the ancestry of Sally Field, the Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in films such as Forrest Gump and Steel Magnolias. Gates uncovers unexpected details about Field's family history, including her ancestors' involvement in the American Revolution and their connection to the Quaker community. The episode also explores how Field's family history may have influenced her politics and activism, particularly her support for women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, the episode delves into Field's complex relationship with her mother and how this may have shaped her approach to acting and her personal life.

Throughout the episode, Gates weaves together the stories of these three figures, highlighting the ways in which their family histories have shaped their personal and professional lives. The episode also explores broader themes related to identity, ancestry, and the ways in which our past informs our present. Whether you're a fan of Sting, Robert Downey Jr., Sally Field, or simply interested in exploring the complexities of human identity, "The British Invasion" offers a compelling journey through history and genealogy.