American History

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 program explores the daily life and customs of enslaved children and adults from colonial times through Emancipation. Through these activities students will come to better understand and appreciate the hardships and plight of African Americans living under the institution of slavery.

Stirring dramatizations, archival photographs and colorful maps help tell the story of the Underground Railroad.

Travel back in time to Old Deerfield, Massachusetts circa 1750 to get a "kid's-eye" view of a colonial kitchen in New England. Learn about cooking techniques and gadgets from long ago. Compare the similarities and differences of how people prepared the family meal in 1750 to now.

Two programs:
The Cold War

It's long been America's strongest cultural bond and its most perilous fault line. For generations, men and women have lived and died for it. Now, consider what it means to be free with this groundbreaking new series, based on the award-winning books by master storyteller Joy Hakim.