Alex Haley was a prominent African American writer and journalist who is best known for his book "Roots: The Saga of an American Family." Published in 1976, "Roots" traced Haley's own family lineage back to Africa, telling the story of Kunta Kinte, an African man who was captured and sold into slavery in the United States.

"Roots" became a cultural phenomenon, both in print and through the groundbreaking television miniseries adaptation that aired in 1977. The series reached a wide audience and sparked discussions about race, identity, and the legacy of slavery in America.

Haley's work helped to popularize genealogy and inspired many African Americans to research their own family histories. He was also a vocal advocate for black empowerment and social justice. Haley's exploration of his own family's history was instrumental in helping to shape a broader understanding of Black history and the experiences of African Americans in the United States.