From the New York Times–bestselling author of Seward and Stanton comes the definitive biography of John Jay: “Wonderful” (Walter Isaacson, New York Times–bestselling author of Leonardo da Vinci).
 
John Jay is central to the early history of the American Republic. Drawing on substantial new material, renowned biographer Walter Stahr has written a full and highly readable...

In its time, their journey equaled a voyage to the moon. It took place before the American west became known as "the frontier," when Europeans understood little about what lay within the continent. Courageous in spirit and unyielding in their dedication to the mission, Meriweather Lewis and William Clark led 31 people from the mouth of the Missouri River to the Pacific Ocean and back. In doing so they engendered a riveting tale of adventure and exploration,...

Despite the tragic gaps that slavery created in many family trees, new research is rebuilding awareness of black life and culture during America's first few decades. This program reveals stories of participants' ancestors during the early years of the United States-such as the riveting, recently discovered account of life in slavery by Morgan Freeman's great-grandmother and the tales of Peter Gomes' ancestors, who were freed and supported by Virginian...

The conclusion of United States v. Burr.

The second part of United States v. Burr.

This biography of the Revolutionary-era "villain" overturns every myth and image we have of him. The narrative of America's founding is filled with godlike geniuses--and then there was Aaron Burr. Generations have been told Burr was a betrayer--of Hamilton, of his country, of those with nobler ideas. All untrue: the politically aggressive Hamilton was preoccupied with Burr and subverted Burr's career at every turn for more than a decade. Historian...

This is a compelling account of the events leading up to the creation of the Constitution. Conforming to civics and history curriculums, the program puts key events into historical perspective by examining the pressures faced by Loyalists, Patriots, and average colonists. Richly textured with historical art, compelling video footage, and insightful commentary, it explores a fascinating mix of individuals, political philosophers, and social issues...

Although the office of the President personifies American leadership, the Legislative branch was actually designed to hold at least as much power as the Executive, if not more. Many Founding Fathers envisioned Congress as the primary governing body, given its closeness, politically speaking, to the people. This program examines the origins, history, and activities of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Topics include the roots of today's...

September 24th, 1789 - the First United States Congress establishes the basic structure of the Federal Judiciary. With this act, the American legal system becomes an entity entwined with our fundamental notions of democracy and fair government, equal in power and authority to the Executive and Legislative branches. This program guides viewers through the history of the Judiciary and illustrates how it works in theory and practice. Topics include the...

The epic story of James Monroe-- the last of America's Founding Fathers -- who transformed a small, fragile nation beset by enemies into a glorious and powerful empire stretching "from sea to shining sea."