Ep 4. This Land Is My Land

In the fourth episode of season six of Finding Your Roots, titled "This Land Is My Land," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the ancestral histories of three renowned figures: journalist Jorge Ramos, author Roxane Gay, and artist Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Jorge Ramos is known for his fearless reporting on controversial issues, particularly those surrounding immigration in the United States. Through DNA analysis and genealogical research, Gates uncovers Ramos' deep roots in Mexico, tracing his family history back to the 17th century and revealing surprising connections to one of Mexico's legendary heroes.

Next, Gates explores the family history of Roxane Gay, a celebrated author and cultural critic. Gay was adopted at a young age, and her search for her biological roots leads her on a journey to the American South. With the help of genealogists, she discovers a trail of ancestors who were slaves, sharecroppers, and farmers, and receives a poignant reminder of the struggles her forebears faced in building her family's legacy.

Finally, Gates turns his attention to Lin-Manuel Miranda, who has become a cultural icon through his work on Hamilton and In the Heights. Miranda's Puerto Rican heritage has always been a source of inspiration for his art, and his family's story is a rich one. Through archival records and oral histories, Gates uncovers a fascinating lineage that includes a slave revolt in Puerto Rico, a daring escape from Spain during the Inquisition, and a prominent political figure who helped establish Puerto Rico's commonwealth status.

Throughout "This Land Is My Land," Gates highlights the ways in which each individual's family history is intimately tied to the history of their homeland, and how their cultural identities have been shaped by the struggles and triumphs of their ancestors. With humor, sensitivity, and a deep respect for his subjects, Gates guides us on a journey through time, illuminating the connections between past and present and inviting us to consider the ways in which our own stories are part of a larger tapestry of human experience.