Access to this video is a benefit for WQED members.

Sign in now

Become a member

Latest Episode

Episode 1 - As Black people fought for full citizenship, hour one explores how free African Americans exercised their self - determination by building communities, establishing schools, and creating associations that would become the foundational pillars of Black America. Host Henry Louis Gates, Jr. explores the organizations, networks and artistic impression created by and for Black people.

All Episodes

Episode 1

Hour one details how African Americans have created spaces for survival, pleasure and joy.

Episode 2

Hour two explores the nation within a nation built by Black Americans out of necessity.

Episode 3

Hour three uncovers vast social networks created by Black Americans to defeat Jim Crow.

Episode 4

From Black Power to Black Twitter hour four reveals safe spaces created by Black America.

About Making Black America

Making Black America: Through the Grapevine is a four-part series hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., that chronicles the vast social networks and organizations created by and for Black people—beyond the reach of the “White gaze.” Professor Gates sits with noted scholars, politicians, cultural leaders, and old friends to discuss this world behind the color line and what it looks like today.

Other shows you may enjoy