Ep 1. The Desire for Freedom

In Roots Less Traveled season 2 episode 1, entitled "The Desire for Freedom," viewers follow host Faruq Tauheed as he travels to the Georgia coast to uncover the remarkable story of courageous individuals who fought for their freedom against some of the harshest odds.

The episode begins with Tauheed meeting up with his first guest and guide, Charles Robinson, a retired military veteran, and a proud descendant of former slaves. Robinson explains that his ancestors were once enslaved on a plantation in Georgia and that he has spent most of his life researching and documenting his family's roots. Robinson is excited to share his knowledge of the area's history with Tauheed and is eager to start the journey.

The first stop on the journey is to the ruins of the Butler Island Plantation, very close to which Robinson’s ancestors were enslaved. Tauheed and Robinson discuss the devastating effects of slavery and the harsh conditions in which slaves were forced to live and work. Robinson reveals how his family fought for their freedom by fleeing the plantation and joining the Union Army.

Next, Tauheed and Robinson head to Fort Pulaski National Monument, where they discover the story of Robert Small, a man who escaped slavery and helped the Union Army win a crucial battle during the Civil War. Small, who was enslaved at a plantation near Charleston, South Carolina, secretly taught himself how to operate a steamship and used this knowledge to steal his master's ship, the Planter. He sailed it out of Confederate territory to the Union blockade, where he surrendered the ship to the Union Navy. His successful escape aided the Union Army's efforts and helped lead to the end of the Civil War. Tauheed and Robinson are impressed by Small's bravery and intelligence and grateful for the chance to learn about him.

Next, Tauheed and Robinson travel to the Pin Point Heritage Museum to explore the Gullah Geechee culture and history of the area. Sheltered from outside influence, Gullah Geechee culture developed independently, with a unique blend of African, European, and Native American elements. The museum showcases local history, including the seafood industry, boat building traditions, and the impact of slavery. Tauheed and Robinson are fascinated by the rich culture, traditions, and stories of the Gullah Geechee people.

In the final part of the journey, Tauheed and Robinson visit the First African Baptist Church in Savannah. The church was established by enslaved African Americans in 1774, and throughout its history, church members played a pivotal role in the fight for freedom. Robinson shares the story of one church member, Andrew Bryan. Bryan was a slave who secretly held church services on plantations, despite it being illegal. Bryan was eventually arrested and severely punished, but he persisted in spreading his message of hope and freedom.

Overall, "The Desire for Freedom" is an inspiring episode that educates viewers about the struggles and triumphs of enslaved people fighting for freedom. Tauheed and Robinson's journey is insightful, and their discussion sheds light on vital issues about slavery, the fight for freedom, and African American history. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, culture, and the remembrance of the fight for freedom in America.