Synopsis
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.
Episodes
Season 11E1Three Two One ZeroExplores the development of rocketry and the atomic age, tracing humanity’s journey from wartime missiles to the dawn of the space era.2E2Nightmare in RedCovers 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.3E3The Twisted CrossExamines 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.4E4The Great War: World War IExamines the first World War from the assassination of Franz Ferdinand to the Treaty of Versailles.5E5The Jazz AgeExamines 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.6E6Call to FreedomChronicles the story of immigration to America, highlighting how millions sought freedom and opportunity from the nation’s founding through the early 20th century.7E7The Innocent YearsExamines 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.8E8Meet Mr. LincolnDescribes the troubles the United States faced in 1860, when Abraham Lincoln was elected President, proceeding through the Civil War and Lincoln's assassination.9E9Life in the ThirtiesExamines American life in the 1930s from the Depression and election of Franklin D. Roosevelt to the eve of World War II.10E10Not So Long AgoExamines 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 1948.11E11Mark Twain's AmericaA look at the life of author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain in 19th century America.12E12He Has Seen WarLooks 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.13E13Those Ragtime YearsCelebrates the music, dance, and cultural spirit of the early 20th century ragtime era, featuring period photos, rare film clips, and classic ragtime tunes.14E14The Coming of ChristTells 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.15E15Victory at SeaChronicles the naval battles of World War II, highlighting the strategy, heroism, and global impact of the Allied forces at sea through dramatic archival footage.16E16The Story of Will RogersBob Hope narrates this look at the life of entertainer Will Rogers.17E17The Real WestGary 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.18E18The World of Bob HopeLooks 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.19E19U.S. Grant, the Improbable HeroExplores 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.20E20The World of Billy GrahamProfiles evangelist Billy Graham’s rise to prominence, exploring his influence on American religious life and his global crusades.21E21Lee, the VirginianExamines the life and military career of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, exploring his leadership during the American Civil War and his complex legacy.22E22The World of Jimmie DoolittleProfiles aviation pioneer and military leader Jimmie Doolittle, highlighting his innovations in flight and his daring leadership during World War II.23E23He is RisenExplores the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, using religious art, music, and historical context to illustrate the significance of Easter in Christian tradition.24E24The Tall American, Gary CooperHighlights the life and career of actor Gary Cooper, exploring his iconic roles and lasting impact on American cinema.25E25That War in KoreaExamines the causes, major battles, and consequences of the Korean War, highlighting the conflict’s impact on soldiers and civilians.26E26The Red, White, and BlueCelebrates American patriotism by exploring the history and symbolism of the U.S. flag and its role in uniting the nation.27E27The Island Called EllisExplores the history of Ellis Island as America’s primary immigration station, highlighting the experiences of the millions who passed through seeking a new life.28E28End of the TrailExplores the inhumane treatment of Native Americans by U.S. settlers and the U.S. military.29E29The Law and the ProphetsExplores the origins and teachings of the Hebrew Bible, highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of the Law and the Prophets in Jewish tradition.30E30Down to the Sea in ShipsChronicles the history of American maritime commerce and whaling, highlighting the challenges and adventures of sailors on the high seas.31E31Meet George WashingtonTraces 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.32E32Mirror of AmericaReflects on American life and culture through historic photographs and film, capturing the nation’s changing identity across decades.33E33The West of Charles RussellA look at artist Charles Russell and his depictions of cowboys and life in the "Wild West".34E34The Shining MountainsExplores 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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