Ep 3. In Search of Freedom

In the third episode of Finding Your Roots season 3, titled "In Search of Freedom," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the family histories of three well-known guests: choreographer and dancer Bill T. Jones, comedian and actor Lewis Black, and journalist Suzanne Malveaux.

The episode takes viewers on a journey through the lives of these three individuals, exploring their ancestors and uncovering the trials and tribulations that their families faced in order to achieve freedom and success in America.

First up is Bill T. Jones, whose family history is traced back to his great-grandmother Caroline, who was born a slave in the South. Gates and his team uncover the heartbreaking story of Caroline's life and her struggle for freedom, revealing the hardships and abuses that she and her family endured.

Next, the spotlight turns to Lewis Black, who discovers that his family tree is filled with strong, independent women who fought for their rights and paved the way for his own success. Along the way, we learn about Black's great-grandmother Bertha, a suffragette who was arrested for daring to demand the right to vote, and his grandmother Naomi, who defied expectations and became a successful businesswoman in her own right.

Finally, we meet Suzanne Malveaux, whose family history is closely tied to the civil rights movement of the 1960s. Through interviews with her mother and aunt, Gates uncovers the story of how Malveaux's grandfather fought for equal rights in Louisiana and eventually became a prominent civil rights attorney, playing a key role in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education.

As always, Gates and his team use genealogical research, historical documents, and DNA testing to piece together the fascinating stories of these three individuals and their families. Along the way, they shed light on important themes like slavery, immigration, civil rights, and the enduring struggle for freedom in America.

With its mix of personal anecdotes, historical insights, and fascinating discoveries, "In Search of Freedom" is a moving and insightful look at the power of family and the role that our ancestors play in shaping our lives.