Ep 6. Fighters

In season 8 episode 6 of Finding Your Roots titled "Fighters," renowned Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the ancestral history of three notable people who have one common thread - they are all fighters in their respective fields. The episode features guests who have made significant contributions to the world of sports, music, and politics.

First up is Ant Anstead, the British television presenter, and car enthusiast. Anstead had a tough childhood and often found himself in trouble with the law. However, he turned his life around and went on to become a successful television personality. Through genealogy research, Gates Jr. discovers that Anstead comes from a long line of coal miners in his father's family. His mother's side traces back to Germany, where he learns about his great-grandfather's harrowing experiences as a soldier in World War I.

Next, Gates Jr. looks into the ancestry of musician Melissa Etheridge. Known for her powerful vocals and socially-conscious lyrics, Etheridge rose to fame in the 1980s and has since become an icon in the music industry. In this episode, viewers learn about her family's deep roots in America, dating back to the earliest settlers. Gates Jr. uncovers a relative who fought in the Civil War and discovers how Etheridge's great-great-grandparents overcame tremendous adversity and discrimination to create a better life for their family.

The final guest on the show is Senator Cory Booker, a politician, and former mayor of Newark, New Jersey. Booker's family has a rich history in civil rights, and Gates Jr. dives into their past to learn more about their activism and efforts to create change. Through genealogy research, Gates Jr. uncovers the story of Booker's great-grandfather who fought for voting rights in the late 19th century, as well as a distant ancestor who was a trailblazer in the fight for abolition. Viewers also get a glimpse into Booker's own upbringing and how his family's legacy influenced his career in public service.

As with every episode of Finding Your Roots, "Fighters" offers an enlightening and personal look into the ancestral history of its guests. Through letters, photos, and historical records, Gates Jr. provides insight into the individuals who paved the way for each guest's success. The show not only offers an opportunity for guests to learn more about themselves, but it also provides viewers with a better understanding of how our past shapes our present.