Jim sits down with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., a renowned historian, filmmaker, Harvard professor, and host of the hit PBS docuseries “Finding Your Roots.” They talk about how genealogy can help people understand their identities, what we can learn from our ancestors, and Gates’ deep personal connection to his own family history. They also delve into Gates’ unique experiences with cars and the historical significance of the automobile industry for the African American community.

00:00 Introduction

01:05 Family History and Car Stories

03:54 College Days and Car Adventures

09:02 The Journey to Finding Your Roots

13:11 The Emotional Connection to Ancestry

17:39 Adoption and Ancestry: Navigating Complex Emotions

19:00 The Impact of DNA Testing on Identity

24:07 The Green Book: A Lifeline for African American Travelers

27:54 The Automobile's Role in African American History

29:56 Advice for the CEO of Ford Motor Company

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