Ep 7. Spike Lee

The show Who Do You Think You Are? takes viewers on a journey of self-discovery as celebrities trace their ancestry and uncover hidden family secrets. In season 1, episode 7, director and filmmaker Spike Lee explores his family history and learns about the incredible struggles and triumphs of his ancestors.

The episode begins with Lee discussing his upbringing in Brooklyn, New York, and his close relationship with his parents. However, as he delves into his family's past, he realizes that he knows very little about his ancestors beyond his grandparents. Lee's journey begins in Georgia, where his mother's family has roots dating back to the Civil War.

With the help of genealogy research and historical documents, Lee uncovers the story of his maternal great-grandfather, who was born into slavery in 1858. His great-grandfather fought in the Civil War and joined the Union Army, but tragically died in battle at the age of 22. Lee is moved by the courage and sacrifice of his great-grandfather, and he reflects on how his own life has been shaped by the struggles of past generations.

Next, Lee travels to Nashville, Tennessee to learn about his paternal grandfather, who was a successful musician in the 1920s and 1930s. Lee discovers that his grandfather was one of the first black musicians to record country music, and his talent helped to break down racial barriers in the music industry. However, Lee also learns that his grandfather faced discrimination and racism throughout his career, and he was eventually forced to stop recording due to the Great Depression.

Finally, Lee travels to eastern Virginia to learn about his ancestors who were enslaved on a tobacco plantation. With the help of historical documents, Lee uncovers the story of his third-great-grandfather, who was sold away from his family at the age of 10. Lee is deeply moved by this tragic history, and he reflects on how his own success and privilege are directly connected to the suffering of past generations.

Throughout the episode, Lee expresses his gratitude for the sacrifices of his ancestors, and he reflects on the importance of understanding and honoring family history. He also acknowledges the role of discrimination and inequality in shaping his family's past and his own experiences, and he reflects on how this knowledge can be used to promote social justice in the present.

Overall, Who Do You Think You Are? season 1, episode 7 is a powerful journey of self-discovery that highlights the resilience and sacrifice of past generations. Through the stories of his ancestors, Spike Lee gains a deeper understanding of his own identity, and he reflects on the role that history plays in shaping who we are today.