Roots
Season 1
8 episodes
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S01E01 Part I
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.
Pilot note — From the desk: Roots opens its catalog run with “Part I” (1977-01-23). Miniseries as cultural reckoning; ratings and conversation as one event. Adaptation controversies and the scale of the production became their own story.
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S01E02 Part II
Despite a violent rebellion, the slave ship Lord Ligonier completes its voyage and Kunta Kinte endures the indiginity 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.
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S01E03 Part III
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.
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S01E04 Part IV
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.
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S01E05 Part V
The teenage Kizzy, well-versed in Mandinka history, falls in love with young Noah, who's determined to escape.
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S01E06 Part VI
Chicken George is sent to England as payment for his owner's gambling debt.
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S01E07 Part VII
Chicken George returns to North Carolina to find his sons have married and started families - and to learn about a state law that says his status as a free man is forfeited if he stays more than 60 days. Meanwhile, the nation erupts in Civil War.
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S01E08 Part VIII
The Civil War is over but night riders terrorize ex-slaves. By marking his clients' horseshoes, Tom identifies the raiders but endangers his own life. Chicken George, who fought for the Union, rejoins his family. He leads them to a new home in Tennessee.
Finale note — From the desk: The guide closes on “Part VIII” (1977-01-30) — a series bookend worth the package context. Adaptation controversies and the scale of the production became their own story.
More from the 1970s.