Ep 8. Hard Times

In "Finding Your Roots" season 5 episode 8, titled "Hard Times," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. explores the family histories of three guests who all faced significant struggles in their lives.

The first guest is political activist and commentator Donna Brazile. Brazile's parents separated when she was young, and she went on to face multiple obstacles throughout her life, including being forced to drop out of college due to financial reasons. Gates delves into Brazile's family history, uncovering the story of her great-grandparents who were born into slavery and managed to purchase their own farm after being freed.

The second guest is actor Ty Burrell, best known for his role in the hit TV show "Modern Family." Burrell's family tree includes several ancestors who faced serious hardships, including his great-great-grandfather who lost his leg fighting in the Civil War. Gates uncovers the story of Burrell's great-grandfather who was a successful businessman until the Great Depression hit, forcing him to declare bankruptcy and start all over again.

The final guest is filmmaker and TV producer Karla Murthy. Murthy's family migrated from the Philippines to the United States for a better life, and she grew up in poverty in California. Gates explores Murthy's family history, revealing the story of her grandfather who worked as a labor organizer in the Philippines before immigrating to the US and facing discrimination and hardship as a Filipino immigrant.

Throughout the episode, Gates uses genealogy and historical research to shed light on the experiences of Brazile, Burrell, and Murthy's ancestors. He reveals how their resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity helped shape the people they are today and the legacies they will leave behind.

Overall, "Finding Your Roots" season 5 episode 8 "Hard Times" is a moving and inspiring exploration of the human spirit and the power of family history to illuminate our understanding of ourselves and our world.