Early NBC series showcasing compilation films - documentaries made from existing archival footage. Patterned on the successful Victory at Sea, it employed fast-paced editing, music, and narration. Concentrating on public affairs and public life, it steered clear of controversial subjects and enjoyed strong ratings, inspiring many competitors such as Air Power and The Twentieth Century. In later years, however, it would be criticized as superficial in comparison to "serious" documentary and current events programs.
3.0 / 5
Episode 1
Explores the development of rocketry and the atomic age, tracing humanity’s journey from wartime missiles to the dawn of the space era.
Episode 2
Covers the old Czarist order, the revolutions of 1905 and 1917 and the growth of Communism inside Russia from its early days to the mid-1950s.
Episode 3
Examines the rise and fall of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, using newsreel footage and photographs to trace the roots and consequences of totalitarianism in Germany.
Episode 4
Examines the first World War from the assassination of Franz Ferdinand to the Treaty of Versailles.
Episode 5
Examines the period between the end of World War I and the stock market crash of 1929. It is an age of Charles Lindbergh, Jazz Music, prohibition, and excess.
Episode 6
Chronicles the story of immigration to America, highlighting how millions sought freedom and opportunity from the nation’s founding through the early 20th century.
Episode 7
Examines the relatively calm and peaceful years between 1900 and 1914 looking at Teddy Roosevelt, Vaudeville, the development of movies, and the deployment of U.S. troops in Mexico.
Episode 8
Describes the troubles the United States faced in 1860, when Abraham Lincoln was elected President, proceeding through the Civil War and Lincoln's assassination.
Episode 9
Examines American life in the 1930s from the Depression and election of Franklin D. Roosevelt to the eve of World War II.
Episode 10
Examines the period between the end of World War II to the start of the Korean War describing the growth in the standard of living, Cold War suspicions in America, and Truman's shocking defeat of Dewey in the presidential election of 1948.
Episode 11
A look at the life of author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain in 19th century America.
Episode 12
Looks at the experiences of ordinary American soldiers returning from World War II and the Korean War, exploring how war changed their lives and the nation’s understanding of veterans.
Episode 13
Celebrates the music, dance, and cultural spirit of the early 20th century ragtime era, featuring period photos, rare film clips, and classic ragtime tunes.
Episode 14
Tells the story of the birth and life of Jesus Christ through Renaissance and medieval art, music, and religious imagery, exploring how the Nativity and early Christianity have been depicted across centuries.
Episode 15
Chronicles the naval battles of World War II, highlighting the strategy, heroism, and global impact of the Allied forces at sea through dramatic archival footage.
Episode 16
Bob Hope narrates this look at the life of entertainer Will Rogers.
Episode 17
Gary Cooper narrates the westward migration from St Louis to CA giving details along the way, then the cattle drives from Texas to Kansas the gold and Silver Rushes, ending with the mistreatment of the Native Americans.
Episode 18
Looks back at Bob Hope’s legendary career in comedy, film, and radio, highlighting his impact on American entertainment and his dedication to performing for U.S. troops around the world.
Episode 19
Explores the life and military career of Ulysses S. Grant, highlighting his unexpected rise from obscurity to commanding general during the American Civil War and eventual presidency.
Episode 20
Profiles evangelist Billy Graham’s rise to prominence, exploring his influence on American religious life and his global crusades.
Episode 21
Examines the life and military career of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, exploring his leadership during the American Civil War and his complex legacy.
Episode 22
Profiles aviation pioneer and military leader Jimmie Doolittle, highlighting his innovations in flight and his daring leadership during World War II.
Episode 23
Explores the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, using religious art, music, and historical context to illustrate the significance of Easter in Christian tradition.
Episode 24
Highlights the life and career of actor Gary Cooper, exploring his iconic roles and lasting impact on American cinema.
Episode 25
Examines the causes, major battles, and consequences of the Korean War, highlighting the conflict’s impact on soldiers and civilians.
Episode 26
Celebrates American patriotism by exploring the history and symbolism of the U.S. flag and its role in uniting the nation.
Episode 27
Explores the history of Ellis Island as America’s primary immigration station, highlighting the experiences of the millions who passed through seeking a new life.
Episode 28
Explores the inhumane treatment of Native Americans by U.S. settlers and the U.S. military.
Episode 29
Explores the origins and teachings of the Hebrew Bible, highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of the Law and the Prophets in Jewish tradition.
Episode 30
Chronicles the history of American maritime commerce and whaling, highlighting the challenges and adventures of sailors on the high seas.
Episode 31
Traces the life and legacy of George Washington, highlighting his leadership in the American Revolution and his role as the first President of the United States.
Episode 32
Reflects on American life and culture through historic photographs and film, capturing the nation’s changing identity across decades.
Episode 33
A look at artist Charles Russell and his depictions of cowboys and life in the "Wild West".
Episode 34
Explores the history and natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, highlighting the people, wildlife, and events that shaped America’s mountain frontier.
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