Ep 2. Part 2
- TV-NR
- February 19, 1979
- 95 min
-
5.8 (6)
Part 2 is the second episode of the first season of Roots: The Next Generations. Continuing the epic saga of the groundbreaking miniseries Roots, this installment delves deeper into the lives of the descendants of Kunta Kinte.
As the episode begins, we find ourselves transported back to the year 1882. Tom Harvey, the grandson of Chicken George, has left his family in Tennessee to pursue a career in politics. Drawing inspiration from his family's ancestry and the struggles they endured, Tom is determined to make a difference and fight for justice in a racially divided America.
Meanwhile, back in Henning, Tennessee, Elizabeth Harvey, Tom's mother, is faced with the challenges of raising her children alone. Although she misses her son dearly, she acknowledges his pursuit of a better future for their family and supports him wholeheartedly. Elizabeth's strength and resilience are put to the test as she encounters racism and prejudice in her everyday life. Determined to protect her family, she becomes a symbol of hope and perseverance.
Across town, Tom's cousin Cynthia has also experienced her fair share of hardships. As a fiercely independent woman, she strives to challenge societal norms and make a name for herself as a successful businesswoman. However, her ambitions come at a cost. Battling against the oppressive system that seeks to keep her down, Cynthia is faced with constant discrimination and adversity. Undeterred, she uses her determination and intelligence to carve her own path and shatter the glass ceiling in her pursuit of financial independence.
Meanwhile, Tom's wife, Missouri, a woman of strong convictions and principles, becomes increasingly involved in the women's suffrage movement. She finds solace and camaraderie among the suffragettes as they rally together to fight for their right to vote. Despite the backlash and resistance they face, Missouri remains unwavering in her belief that women should have a voice in shaping the future of their country.
As the episode progresses, we are introduced to a new generation of the Harvey family. Raymond, Tom's son, struggles to find his place in a society that still views African Americans as second-class citizens. Encouraged by his father's legacy, Raymond finds himself torn between his desire to make a difference and the harsh reality of the world around him. Will he be able to carry on his family's legacy and fight for equality, or will he succumb to the pressures of conformity?
Part 2 of Roots: The Next Generations takes us on a poignant journey through the lives of the Harvey family and the next generation of descendants. It is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and the enduring legacy of one family's struggle for freedom and equality. In a world plagued by racism and oppression, the Harveys stand as a symbol of hope and resilience, reminding us of the importance of remembering our past, embracing our heritage, and working together to create a better future for all.