Social Studies

Commanding shoguns and samurai warriors, exotic geisha and exquisite artisans—all were part of the Japanese "renaissance"—a period between the 16th and 19th centuries when Japan went from chaos and violence to a land of ritual refinement and peace.

Two thousand years ago, at the dawn of the First Century, the world was ruled by Rome. The Roman Empire struggled with problems which are surprisingly familiar: violent coups, assassination, overarching ambition, civil war, clashes between the classes as well as the sexes, and questions of personal freedom versus government control.

As the 18th century dawned on the North American continent, four powers - the French, the Spanish, the British and the Native Americans were competing to see who would control this remarkable land. However, after half a century of almost continuous wars, a new entity emerged: The Americans.

As the 18th century dawned on the North American continent, four powers - the French, the Spanish, the British and the Native Americans were competing to see who would control this remarkable land. However, after half a century of almost continuous wars, a new entity emerged: The Americans.

As the 18th century dawned on the North American continent, four powers - the French, the Spanish, the British and the Native Americans were competing to see who would control this remarkable land. However, after half a century of almost continuous wars, a new entity emerged: The Americans.

This exciting program uncovers the seeds of the American Revolution and explains that the causes were rooted in England's imperial policies. It introduces the resistance leaders, Patriots and Loyalists, and the events leading to the Boston Massacre. See how the Coercive Acts, passed in response to the Boston Tea Party, helped unite the colonies.

This program vividly presents the hardships faced by the first European settlers, giving viewers a sense of determination of the Jamestown and Puritan settlers. It traces the impact of the English in the New World, changes to Native American societies, religious diversity and freedom, and the role of the Pennsylvania Quakers.

All aboard! Next stop...New York! On this trip, we will explore New York's landforms, taking a trip under Niagara Falls and up into the Catskill Mountains. We will explore the history, industry, natural resources and culture of the state, especially the contributions of immigrants and native peoples.

Uses archival photographs and footage and interviews with survivors and family members and friends to recreate the life and death of Anne Frank during the Holocaust. Winner of the 1995 Academy Award - Best Documentary. Narrated by Kenneth Branagh and Glenn Close.

Examines the history of Canada including the Inuit and First Nations people, Viking settlements, French and British exploration, the Hudson Bay Company, and the structure and function of Canada's government today.

Discusses how Canada's geography shaped its history and culture. Looks at land formations, rivers, climate, wilderness areas, and natural resources. Examines cities lie Vancouver and Ottowa, and small farming and fishing communities.

Viewers will learn about traditional Canadian symbols, contributions of Canadians, food, holidays, crafts, folktales, and Canada Day.

Examines the ancient civilizations of the Olmec, Aztec, and Maya; Spanish conquest of the Aztec; the impact of Catholic missionaries; the wars for independence. Looks at Mexican leaders such as Benito Juarez, Father Hidalgo, and General Santa Anna.

Looks at how the geography of Mexico has shaped its history, society, and culture. Examines a variety of regions including the Sonoran Desert and the rainforests of Chipas. Discusses major industries like silver mining and tourism.