Taraji P. Henson is an African American actress, with her ancestry traced back to specific regions and peoples of Africa.
Ancestral Roots and Heritage
Henson's background includes documented connections to West African heritage through scientific analysis and familial claims, enriching her identity as an African American woman.
Documented Ancestry Details:
- Matrilineal Lineage: A mitochondrial DNA analysis has indicated that her direct female line can be traced to the Masa people of Cameroon. This specific connection highlights her ancestral ties to West Central Africa.
- Claimed Paternal Connection: Henson has stated that North Pole explorer Matthew Henson was "the brother of [her] great-great-grandfather," suggesting a historical and familial link to a prominent figure in African American history.
This blend of scientific lineage tracing and historical family accounts provides a comprehensive view of her ethnic background.
Summary of Taraji P. Henson's Ancestry
To provide a quick overview of her ethnic background:
| Ancestral Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Ethnicity | African American |
| Matrilineal Lineage | Masa people of Cameroon (via mitochondrial DNA analysis) |
| Claimed Kinship | Relative of North Pole explorer Matthew Henson |
