The BEST episodes of Roots
Every episode of Roots ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Roots!
A historical portrait of American slavery, recounting the journey of one family and their will to survive and ultimately carry on their legacy despite hardship.
#2 - Part VIII
Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 1/30/1977
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.
#3 - Part V
Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 1/28/1977
The teenage Kizzy, well-versed in Mandinka history, falls in love with young Noah, who's determined to escape.
#4 - Part VII
Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 1/29/1977
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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#5 - Part II
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 1/24/1977
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.
#6 - Part I
Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 1/23/1977
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.
#7 - Part III
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 1/25/1977
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.
#8 - Part IV
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 1/27/1977
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.