Roots

The Saga of an American Family.

7.4(241)|1977-01-23|1 seasons, 8 episodes

Drama

Overview

The epic tale of celebrated Pulitzer-prize winning author Alex Haley's ancestors as portrayed in the acclaimed twelve hour mini-series Roots, was first told in his 1976 bestseller Roots: The Saga of an American Family. The docu-drama covers a period of history that begins in mid-1700s Gambia, West Africa and concludes during post-Civil War United States, over 100 years later. This 1977 miniseries eventually won 9 Emmy awards, a Golden Globe award, and a Peabody award, and still stands as the most watched miniseries in U.S. history.

Episodes

Miniseries(8)

S1E1 · 1977-01-23 · 97m

Part I

4.4

In Gambia, West Africa, Kunta Kinte, son of Omoro and Binta, distinguishes himself in manhood training rituals. But he does not enjoy his new status long: slave traders sweeping the countryside seize him. Chained with other captives, Kunta begins an agonized odyssey to the New World.

S1E2 · 1977-01-24 · 97m

Part II

3.8

Despite a violent rebellion, the slave ship Lord Ligonier completes its voyage and Kunta Kinte endures the indignity of an Annapolis slave auction. Fiddler, the slave in charge of Kunta's training, becomes his only friend, a friendship that's tested when Kunta plans his escape.

S1E3 · 1977-01-25 · 91m

Part III

3.3

In 1776, a nation fights for freedom - but not for all. Still driven by his memories as a Mandinka "fighting man," Kunta (now renamed Toby) escapes once more.

S1E4 · 1977-01-26 · 51m

Part IV

3.5

After Genelva's nighttime dalliance with Junta deflects suspicion so she can flee with her lover, Kunta forms a romantic attachment to the worldly-wise Bell, whom he marries.

S1E5 · 1977-01-27 · 51m

Part V

3.7

The teenage Kizzy, well-versed in Mandinka history, falls in love with young Noah, who's determined to escape.

S1E6 · 1977-01-28 · 51m

Part VI

3.7

Chicken George is sent to England as payment for his owner's gambling debt.

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