Bettye kearse is a pushcart prize winning essayist. The other madisons the lost history of a president s black family is her first book and follows a 30 year quest to confirm her lineage. It was called roots for a new generation. Thank you for being part of this program. Most of us grew up thinking of James Madison, the first draft of the u. S. Constitution, what did you think . What were you told . I was told. With this important figure in American History. I was also told he was my greatgreatgrandfather through his relationship with one of those enslaved cooks. He was my ancestor. Host always remember you are a madison. You come from african slaves and president s. What does that mean for you as a child. To me it sets some clear expectations. It was intended to be an installation. In my family history, also i had slaves in my family to be admired as well. Theres a lot to live up to. A lot was expected of me. She carried the stories of her lineage, both had been enslaved, eight genera