Sesong
Episode
Spiller-server
Amerikansk opplevelse
19887
Dokumentar
Utgitt
04. okt. 1988
Land
USA
Produksjon
GBH
Serien med høyest seertall på TV bringer levende fortellinger fra fortiden vår som gir innsikt i vår forståelse av verden i dag.
About
Quick guide
American Experience is a long‑running PBS documentary series that brings historical stories to life.
American Experience, first broadcast in 1988, presents in‑depth documentaries about pivotal moments and figures in American history. Each episode is research‑driven, featuring primary documents, expert interviews, and period footage to provide context and nuance. The series is praised for its balanced storytelling, clear narrative flow, and commitment to historical accuracy. Episodes cover a wide range of topics, from the Civil War and the Gilded Age to the Civil Rights movement and beyond, offering viewers a deeper understanding of how the past shapes the present.
What to know
- The series debuted in 1988 and has aired annually.
- Each episode is a self‑contained documentary, usually 90–120 minutes.
- PBS provides the funding; the series is produced by independent production teams.
- Episodes feature a mix of narration, archival footage, and expert commentary.
- There is no recurring host; storytelling is driven by the subject matter.
- Episodes are available for streaming on PBS Passport and select platforms.
- The series has received multiple awards, including Peabody and Emmy recognitions.
- Most episodes are available for educational use through PBS’s learning resources.
Watch if
If you enjoy well‑researched history programs that combine expert analysis with engaging storytelling, and you appreciate a series that covers a broad spectrum of American events—from the founding era to contemporary social movements—American Experience will resonate with you. The program’s commitment to accuracy and depth
Skip if
If you prefer fast‑paced documentaries, sensationalized content, or show formats that rely on dramatization rather than archival footage, this series may feel too measured or scholarly for your tastes. Additionally, if you’re looking for contemporary political commentary or speculative narratives,
political themesmature themesinvestigation heavypsychological elementswar themes
Series Overview
American Experience debuted in 1988 as a flagship PBS series that seeks to illuminate the events and personalities that have shaped the United States. The format blends narration with archival footage, expert interviews, and contemporary commentary, offering a comprehensive look at each topic.
Production Model
The series is produced by a range of independent production companies, with PBS providing the broadcast platform. Funding comes from viewer donations, foundations, and corporate sponsorships, allowing creative freedom and high production values.
Episode Structure
Episodes run 90–120 minutes and are self‑contained documentaries. Each episode follows a clear narrative arc, beginning with historical context, exploring key events and figures, and concluding with reflection on contemporary relevance.
Audience Engagement
PBS provides supplementary resources, including discussion guides, transcripts, and educational materials, encouraging viewers to engage deeper with the content and use it in classroom settings.
Critical Reception
The program has earned numerous accolades, including Peabody Awards, multiple Emmys, and critical praise for its rigorous research and balanced storytelling.
FAQ
20 Q&A
Are the Amish a cult?
No. They are a Christian church that follows Christian tenets, focusing on adult baptism, simplicity, and separation from mainstream culture.
Can Amish people be photographed?
The film states Amish people cannot be photographed, as they believe the second of the Ten Commandments prohibits making images of people.
Why does the film show so much diversity among Amish?
The Amish consist of about 40 distinct subgroups, each with its own unwritten rules. The film highlights this variety to avoid generalizations.
Do the Amish reject all modern technology?
They selectively use technology that fits their values—many reject electricity and cars, but may use tractors or phones depending on the group.
Do Amish people use modern medicine?
The Amish vary: some use modern medicine, others rely on traditional remedies. Access to healthcare is largely based on community decisions.
What is Rumspringa?
Rumspringa is a period starting at age 16 where Amish youth explore the outside world before deciding whether to be baptized into the church.
How are Amish marriages regulated?
Marriage is typically arranged within the community; adults must be baptized, and the process emphasizes religious and community approval rather than individual choice.
Do Amish people use electricity in their homes?
Most Amish avoid the public electrical grid; some use battery power or solar panels, but generally they stay off the main grid.
How do Amish parents handle education for their children?
Education is limited to eighth grade; many Amish parents emphasize practical skills over academic advancement.
What is the Amish approach to healthcare during emergencies?
In emergencies, Amish communities may rely on local physicians or midwives; the decision is guided by community norms rather than formal medical protocols.
How does the KKK pose a threat in the U.S. today?
While the KKK remains small, isolated cells can be dangerous; the group’s legacy of violence still influences local attitudes in some areas.
Has the KKK had lasting political influence?
The KKK’s political impact peaked in the 1920s; beyond that, its influence has waned, though it has left a legacy of segregation and racial tension.
Is the KKK mainly a Southern organization?
Originally Southern, the KKK has spread nationally; many active chapters exist in all 50 states, though most remain marginal.
Why do KKK members wear white hoods and burn crosses?
White hoods and cross burnings were adopted to create a sense of fear and intimidation, drawing on historical symbols of the old South.
Has the KKK always been a violent organization?
Violence has been a constant component of the KKK, though the level and nature of violence varied across its different waves.
When did American Experience first air?
American Experience premiered on PBS in October 1988, providing a new format for historical documentaries.
What type of stories does American Experience cover?
The series covers a broad range of historical topics, from wars and revolutions to social movements, biographies, and cultural events.
How are episodes of American Experience produced?
Episodes are produced by independent teams that collaborate with PBS, using archival footage and expert interviews to craft each narrative.
Are there any educational resources tied to American Experience?
Yes, PBS provides discussion guides, transcripts, and teaching resources that can be used in classroom settings.
Does American Experience receive awards?
The series has earned multiple prestigious awards, including Peabody Awards and Emmy nominations, reflecting its quality and impact.