Uncovering America's Painful Past: From Enslaved Families to Forgotten Graves

A Reuters investigation reveals that a fifth of U.S. congressmen, living presidents, Supreme Court justices, and governors have direct ancestors who enslaved Black people, highlighting the lasting impact of slavery on American society. The article follows the journeys of two families, one enslaved by the other, and explores how the legacy of slavery continues to shape America, contributing to a wide racial wealth gap and disparities in educational opportunities. The story emphasizes the fundamentally different paths available to Black and white Americans, despite the accomplishments and contributions made by both families.