Ep 5. Visionaries

In the fifth episode of season three of Finding Your Roots, titled "Visionaries," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. explores the ancestries of three renowned visionaries who have helped shape the modern world. Joining Gates on this journey of genealogical discovery are filmmaker and playwright Anna Deavere Smith, journalist Maria Hinojosa, and author and professor Ta-Nehisi Coates.

Throughout the episode, Gates delves into each individual's family history and uncovers unexpected connections and revelations. For example, he uncovers the story of Maria Hinojosa's great-grandfather, who was a renowned photographer in Mexico during the early 20th century. By piecing together the details of his life, Gates is able to shed light on the rich artistic culture of Mexico at the time.

Similarly, Gates uncovers the story of Anna Deavere Smith's grandfather, who was part of a pioneering African American community in Baltimore during the early 1900s. Through archival footage and interviews with Smith's family members, Gates paints a vivid picture of what life was like for this community at a time of great racial tension and social upheaval.

Finally, Gates delves into the ancestry of Ta-Nehisi Coates, whose groundbreaking work on race and politics has earned him widespread acclaim. Along the way, he uncovers surprising connections between Coates's family and some of the most influential figures in African American history, including Malcolm X and Angela Davis.

As always, Gates digs deep into the historical and cultural context of each individual's ancestry, taking viewers on a fascinating journey of discovery that illuminates not only their personal histories, but also the wider world in which they lived. From Mexico to Baltimore to New York City, "Visionaries" offers a compelling look at the diverse and complex roots of some of the most talented and visionary individuals of our time.