
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.
Air Date: 1954-09-13
Explores the development of rocketry and the atomic age, tracing humanity’s journey from wartime missiles to the dawn...
Air Date: 1955-12-27
Covers the old Czarist order, the revolutions of 1905 and 1917 and the growth of Communism inside Russia from its ear...
Air Date: 1956-03-14
Examines the rise and fall of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, using newsreel footage and photographs to trace the ro...
Air Date: 1956-10-15
Examines the first World War from the assassination of Franz Ferdinand to the Treaty of Versailles.
Air Date: 1956-12-06
Examines the period between the end of World War I and the stock market crash of 1929. It is an age of Charles Lindbe...
Air Date: 1957-01-06
Chronicles the story of immigration to America, highlighting how millions sought freedom and opportunity from the nat...
Air Date: 1957-11-21
Examines the relatively calm and peaceful years between 1900 and 1914 looking at Teddy Roosevelt, Vaudeville, the dev...
Air Date: 1959-02-11
Describes the troubles the United States faced in 1860, when Abraham Lincoln was elected President, proceeding throug...
Air Date: 1959-10-16
Examines American life in the 1930s from the Depression and election of Franklin D. Roosevelt to the eve of World War...
Air Date: 1960-02-19
Examines the period between the end of World War II to the start of the Korean War describing the growth in the stand...
Air Date: 1960-04-22
A look at the life of author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain in 19th century America.
Air Date: 1961-03-29
Looks at the experiences of ordinary American soldiers returning from World War II and the Korean War, exploring how ...
Air Date: 1960-11-22
Celebrates the music, dance, and cultural spirit of the early 20th century ragtime era, featuring period photos, rare...
Air Date: 1960-12-21
Tells the story of the birth and life of Jesus Christ through Renaissance and medieval art, music, and religious imag...
Air Date: 1960-12-29
Chronicles the naval battles of World War II, highlighting the strategy, heroism, and global impact of the Allied for...
Air Date: 1961-03-28
Bob Hope narrates this look at the life of entertainer Will Rogers.
Air Date: 1961-03-29
Gary Cooper narrates the westward migration from St Louis to CA giving details along the way, then the cattle drives ...
Air Date: 1961-10-29
Looks back at Bob Hope’s legendary career in comedy, film, and radio, highlighting his impact on American entertainme...
Air Date: 1961-11-24
Explores the life and military career of Ulysses S. Grant, highlighting his unexpected rise from obscurity to command...
Air Date: 1961-11-29
Profiles evangelist Billy Graham’s rise to prominence, exploring his influence on American religious life and his glo...
Air Date: 1962-01-15
Examines the life and military career of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, exploring his leadership during the Ameri...
Air Date: 1962-01-18
Profiles aviation pioneer and military leader Jimmie Doolittle, highlighting his innovations in flight and his daring...
Air Date: 1962-04-15
Explores the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, using religious art, music, and historical context to illustr...
Air Date: 1963-03-26
Highlights the life and career of actor Gary Cooper, exploring his iconic roles and lasting impact on American cinema.
Air Date: 1963-11-20
Examines the causes, major battles, and consequences of the Korean War, highlighting the conflict’s impact on soldier...
Air Date: 1964-06-09
Celebrates American patriotism by exploring the history and symbolism of the U.S. flag and its role in uniting the na...
Air Date: 1967-01-13
Explores the history of Ellis Island as America’s primary immigration station, highlighting the experiences of the mi...
Air Date: 1967-03-16
Explores the inhumane treatment of Native Americans by U.S. settlers and the U.S. military.
Air Date: 1967-04-23
Explores the origins and teachings of the Hebrew Bible, highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of the...
Air Date: 1968-12-11
Chronicles the history of American maritime commerce and whaling, highlighting the challenges and adventures of sailo...
Air Date: 1969-04-24
Traces the life and legacy of George Washington, highlighting his leadership in the American Revolution and his role ...
Air Date: 1969-05-11
Reflects on American life and culture through historic photographs and film, capturing the nation’s changing identity...
Air Date: 1970-01-07
A look at artist Charles Russell and his depictions of cowboys and life in the "Wild West".
Air Date: 1970-05-27
Explores the history and natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, highlighting the people, wildlife, and events that sh...