Alistair Cooke’s America
Alistair Cooke’s America is a captivating 13-part documentary series that delves into the rich and multifaceted history of the United States. Written and narrated by the esteemed British journalist Alistair Cooke, this series takes viewers on an enthralling voyage from the early voyages of discovery to the present day.
- The First Impact (Episode 1): Cooke shares his personal infatuation with the United States, tracing it back to his childhood and subsequent visits as a young man. This episode explores how America left an indelible mark on his life.
- The New Found Land (Episode 2): We follow the Spanish in the west and the French in the east—their lives, settlements, and influence. Their explorations and interactions shape the contours of the continent.
- Home from Home (Episode 3): The settlement of America by English dissenters and adventurers unfolds—from the Jamestown Settlement to the Pilgrim Fathers. Cooke paints a vivid picture of their struggles and aspirations.
- Making a Revolution (Episode 4): The American Revolutionary War takes center stage—a fierce military struggle to break free from British control. Cooke delves into the birth of a nation.
- Inventing a Nation (Episode 5): The forging of the federal government through the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights becomes a pivotal moment. The tension between national and individual state governments is explored.
- Gone West (Episode 6): Pioneers like Daniel Boone and the intrepid “Forty-Niners” shape the landscape. The Louisiana Purchase and the dispossession of Native Americans unfold against the backdrop of westward expansion.
- A Firebell in the Night (Episode 7): The haunting tale of slavery and life in the Southern states intertwines with the events, causes, and effects of the American Civil War. Cooke unearths the complexities of this pivotal period.
- Domesticating a Wilderness (Episode 8): Settlers push westward—the Latter-day Saints, the railroad’s continental crossing, and the myth of the cowboy. The land is tamed, but at what cost to Native American communities?
Alistair Cooke’s America weaves together historical narratives, personal reflections, and profound insights. Cooke’s passion for the country shines through, making this series a timeless exploration of America’s soul. It’s a journey that spans continents, centuries, and hearts—a testament to the enduring allure of the American story.
