Ep 4. Dreaming Of A New Land

In the fourth episode of Finding Your Roots season 5, titled "Dreaming Of A New Land," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. uncovers the ancestral stories of three diverse guests with deep roots in America.

First up is former talk show host and journalist Charlayne Hunter-Gault, whose ancestors were enslaved on a Georgian plantation. Hunter-Gault has always been proud of her family's resilience and perseverance in the face of oppression, but she is eager to discover more about her heritage. With Gates' help, she learns about the remarkable life of her great-grandfather, who escaped slavery and went on to become a successful businessman and community leader.

Next on the list is chef and restaurateur José Andrés, who was born in Spain but now calls America home. Andrés is curious about his European lineage, but also hopes to uncover any connections he may have to the Americas. Through genetic testing and genealogical research, Gates and his team reveal surprising revelations about Andrés' family history, including an ancestor who was exiled for political reasons and the possibility of Native American ancestry.

Finally, Gates delves into the family history of neurosurgeon and public health advocate Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Gupta's parents emigrated from India in the 1960s, but their journey to America was not without its challenges. As Gupta explores his family's past, he uncovers stories of bravery and perseverance, including the story of his grandfather who fought for India's independence from British rule.

Throughout the episode, Gates and his team explore the complexity and diversity of American identity, as they help these guests uncover the stories of their ancestors who came to this country dreaming of a new land and a better life.