On January 23, 1977 ABC-TV begins televising the Roots mini-series which would go on to be the most watched mini-series in history, based on Alex Haley's book.

Roots won nine Emmy Awards it was nominated for 37. Roots also won Golden Globe and Peabody Awards.

Roots still hold the record as the third highest rated episode for any type of television series. Roots opened the door to a greater conversation about race about race in America.
Oprah talked to the cast of Roots about its effect on America.

 

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