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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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Moving On Up
52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. maps the roots of actor Sheryl Lee Ralph & historian Lonnie Bunch.
The Butterfly Effect
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. traces the family trees of actors Debra Messing & Melanie Lynskey.
The Ties That Bind
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. maps the roots of married actors Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard.
Latin Roots
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. meets musician Rubén Blades & journalist Natalie Morales.
Family Recipes
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the ancestry of notable chefs José Andrés & Sean Sherman.
Dreamers One And All
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. traces the ancestry of actor Sharon Stone & model Chrissy Teigen.
Stranger Than Fiction
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. reveals inspiring ancestors of novelist Amy Tan & poet Rita Dove.
La Famiglia
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the Italian roots of Joy Behar & Michael Imperioli.
Larger Than Life
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52:10
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. connects Lea Salonga & Amanda Seyfried to their dramatic ancestors.
Viewers Like You
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52:09
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. solves mysteries for 3 everyday Americans chosen to be guests.
In the Blood
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52:09
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. uncovers the surprising roots of Michael Douglas & Lena Dunham.
Mean Streets
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52:09
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. maps family trees of comedian Tracy Morgan & actor Anthony Ramos.
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