Finding Your Roots

Ancient Roots

Trace the histories of these three guests. Tina Fey’s fifth great-grandfather survived a terrible massacre and became a hero in the Greek War of Independence. David Sedaris’ ancestors were also touched by the Greek War of Independence. George Stephanopoulos’ family was willing to sacrifice themselves in the struggle against the Nazi occupation of Greece during World War II.

Ancient Roots Promo

23s

Ancient Roots traces the family history of three quintessential voices in American life, Tina Fey, George Stephanopoulos and David Sedaris. All three descend from ancestors that were part of the wave of Greek immigrants that flooded America’s shores in the early decades of the 20th century. But along the way, the stories of their Greek ancestors were lost.

Previews + Extras

  • Tracing Tina Fey's Paternal Line: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Tracing Tina Fey's Paternal Line

    S2 E9 - 2m 39s

    Professor Gates introduces Tina Fey to her 5th Great-Grandfather, John Hewson, a British textile manufacturer who was once the esteemed guest of founding father Benjamin Franklin.

  • George Stephanopoulos' Heroic Ancestors: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    George Stephanopoulos' Heroic Ancestors

    S2 E9 - 2m 55s

    George Stephanopoulos learns that his Great-Grandfather heroically resisted Nazi occupation during WW2 and was imprisoned for his acts of bravery.

  • David Sedaris' Patriot Ancestor: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    David Sedaris' Patriot Ancestor

    S2 E9 - 2m 58s

    Professor Gates introduces David Sedaris to his his maternal 4th Great-Grandfather, a Revolutionary War soldier wounded in the Battle of Saratoga.

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