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Lena Dunham Uncovers Her Ancestor's Complex Legacy

Season 10 Episode 9

Lena Dunham confronts the more troubling aspects of her ancestor's 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.

AIR DATE 4/2/24

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About Finding Your Roots

Join Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr. to uncover the surprising ancestral stories of 28 cultural trailblazers with fascinating histories. The series ends with an exploration of how science and history can inspire the next generation.

Visit Finding Your Roots Website

Broadcast Dates

#1110 - Finding My Roots |
Wednesday, Apr 9 at 2pm TPT 2
#1110 - Finding My Roots |
Wednesday, Apr 9 at 2pm TPT 2
#1110 - Finding My Roots |
Wednesday, Apr 9 at 11pm TPT 2
#1110 - Finding My Roots |
Wednesday, Apr 9 at 11pm TPT 2
#1110 - Finding My Roots |
Thursday, Apr 10 at 5am TPT 2

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