Ep 5. Write My Name In The Book Of Life

In Season 7, Episode 5 of "Finding Your Roots," titled "Write My Name in the Book of Life," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. explores the family histories of three celebrity guests: actor Jeff Goldblum, radio host Terry Gross, and political commentator Marc Lamont Hill.

The episode begins with Goldblum recounting his childhood memories of growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the influence his parents had on his love for music and acting. Gates then introduces Goldblum to his paternal ancestors, uncovering a surprising connection to Russian Jewish immigrants who settled in the United States in the late 1800s.

Next, Gross delves into her family history, which has always been somewhat of a mystery to her. Her mother's parents were Orthodox Jews who immigrated to the United States from Russia, but beyond that, little is known. Through genealogical research and DNA testing, Gates helps Gross piece together her family tree and discover a tragic story involving her great-grandparents.

Finally, Hill learns about his African ancestors and the challenges they faced during the transatlantic slave trade, as well as his European ancestors who immigrated to the United States from Ireland and Italy. Gates uncovers an intriguing connection between Hill's ancestors and the Underground Railroad, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of the fight for emancipation.

Throughout the episode, Gates also touches on broader themes related to identity, belonging, and the human experience, as he emphasizes the importance of understanding our roots and how they shape who we are today. "Finding Your Roots" offers a fascinating look at our shared history and the diverse paths that have led us to where we are today.