Henry Louis Gates Jr. is an American literary critic, historian, and filmmaker, known for his work in African American studies. He was born on September 16, 1950, in Keyser, West Virginia. Gates is a professor at Harvard University and has authored numerous books that explore African American culture and history. Gates gained widespread recognition for his PBS documentary series, including Finding Your Roots, which traces the genealogy of celebrities and public figures. He has also been involved in various initiatives to promote education and understanding of African American history, making significant contributions to the field.