Ep 9. Ancient Roots

In season 2, episode 9 of the fascinating genealogy series Finding Your Roots, titled "Ancient Roots," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the ancestry of three popular celebrities to uncover new and surprising details about their family histories.

First, actor Kyra Sedgwick embarks on a journey to learn more about her roots, including her distant connection to Quincy, Massachusetts, where her father's family originated. She studies her family's involvement in the American Revolution and their long history in the area, which dates back to the early 1600s. Kyra is also amazed to discover her family's link to a famous poet, as well as her family's origin story from England.

Next, comedian and actress Amy Schumer journeys back through the footsteps of her great-great-grandmother, who risked everything to immigrate to the United States from Eastern Europe. She learns more about the family's tough beginnings, including humble origins in the area where her great-great-grandmother got her start. She discovers a connection to a famous activist, as well as a connection to one of the oldest families in America. Over time, Amy comes to cherish her connection to her family and her eclectic heritage.

Finally, author Ta-Nehisi Coates discovers some amazing connections to the past. He discovers a fascinating link to an early immigrant who arrived in America from Africa in the late 1600s. He also learns about his family's involvement in the Black Migration, a movement that saw millions of black Americans relocate across the United States during the 1900s in search of better lives. Additionally, Ta-Nehisi uncovers some fascinating details about his family's connection to Louisiana, a state which has played an instrumental role in African-American history.

Throughout the episode, viewers will discover the many twists and turns of genealogy research as the show hosts delve into the depths of family history. Along the way, they will explore the lives of some amazing people, including both history-makers and everyday people. They will learn about the many factors that influence family stories and how geographic location, ethnicity, and migration patterns all play a role in shaping family histories. Above all, viewers will see how finding your roots can be both revealing and emotional, offering new insights into the people we are and the lives we lead.