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Finding Your Roots
Lena Dunham Uncovers Her Ancestor's Complex Legacy
We trace Lena Dunham's ancestry back to her paternal eighth great-grandfather, Stephanus van Cortlandt, a pivotal figure in the early history of New York City. Stephanus's life story unfolds as one of ambition, becoming the first native-born Mayor of New York. But Lena confronts the more troubling aspects of his legacy, including his dealings with the Lenape tribe and his involvement in slavery.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the Italian roots of Joy Behar & Michael Imperioli.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. connects Lea Salonga & Amanda Seyfried to their dramatic ancestors.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. solves mysteries for 3 everyday Americans chosen to be guests.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. uncovers the surprising roots of Michael Douglas & Lena Dunham.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. maps family trees of comedian Tracy Morgan & actor Anthony Ramos.
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Henry Louis Gates, Jr. shares ancestry with actor Danielle Brooks & singer Dionne Warwick.
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Sunny Hostin and Jesse Williams discover ancestors from very diverse places.
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Bob Odenkirk and Iliza Shlesinger—two very funny people whose family trees brim with drama
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Sammy Hagar and Ed O’Neill discover the dramatic stories hidden within their own roots.
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LeVar Burton & Wes Studi grew up fatherless, haunted by questions about their family trees