Finding Your Roots

Science Pioneers

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. traces the family trees of Francis Collins, Shirley Ann Jackson, and Harold E. Varmus — three pioneering scientists who’ve made dramatic contributions to our understanding of the world, all the while knowing little about their own ancestry.

Science Pioneers Preview

30s

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. traces the family trees of Francis Collins, Shirley Ann Jackson, and Harold E. Varmus — three pioneering scientists who’ve made dramatic contributions to our understanding of the world, all the while knowing little about their own ancestry.

Previews + Extras

  • Varmus Grandparents: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Varmus Grandparents

    S6 E7 - 57s

    Dr. Harold E. Varmus expresses his gratitude to his grandparents for leaving Europe.

  • Take My Breath Away: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Take My Breath Away

    S6 E7 - 1m 41s

    Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson views the 1836 estate records listing the names and "worth" of her enslaved ancestors.

  • Revolutionary War: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Revolutionary War

    S6 E7 - 1m 1s

    Dr. Francis Collins learns his ancestor was a Patriot that served in the Continental Army in the American Revolution.

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