Watch America: Promised Land

America: Promised Land is a fascinating historic documentary series aired by the History channel in 2017. The 4-part series explores the immigrant experience in America from the 1600s to the present day, and how their contributions have shaped the nation. The show is led by Corey Johnson, Milton Schorr, and Scot Cooper, who guide us through the centuries-long journey, while highlighting significant landmarks and individuals who have come to define the American identity.

The first installment, "The Search for a Better Life," dives into the motivations and challenges that drove immigrants to venture to the new world. From religious persecution, to economic hardship, to the promise of new beginnings, the series paints a complex picture of what drove people off their native soil. Through personal testimonies and poignant reenactments, the viewer is invited to step into the shoes of these brave explorers, and witness the realities they faced once embarked on their transatlantic journey.

The second chapter, "Taking Root," explores the hurdles immigrants faced once they arrived on American soil. Discrimination, segregation, and cultural shock were only a few of the challenges that greeted newcomers. Nevertheless, despite these difficulties, immigrant communities emerged and flourished, often sustaining customs and languages that would become part of the American tapestry. The show highlights key figures and institutions that helped pave the way for these communities, such as Jane Addams and her Hull House settlement, or the establishment of Little Italy and Chinatown in New York.

"Between Worlds," the third part of the series, examines the role of immigrants in America's continuing expansion and modernization. From the building of the intercontinental railroad to the construction of skyscrapers and urban infrastructures, the arrival of newcomers was not only essential but also transformative in the country's technological and social advancement. The episode also covers the impact of the world wars on immigrant communities, and how patriotism and loyalty were put to the test against their fellow countrymen.

The final act, "No Longer Strangers," brings us closer to the present day, showing how immigrant experience has evolved and diversified over the years. The episode focuses on the 1960s onwards, a period of significant immigration reform and increased globalization that brought diversity to America's shores. The show features moving personal accounts of refugees and asylum seekers, as well as the more recent controversies surrounding immigration policy and border control. The episode ultimately asks us to consider what the immigrant experience means today in America and what does it mean to be American.

Overall, America: Promised Land is a well-executed and informative historical documentary that blends factual evidence with emotive storytelling. The show's strength lies in its ability to create a powerful narrative through individual stories while simultaneously offering a broad historical context. The cinematography is stunning, and the editing is seamless, making the viewer fully immerse themselves in the story. Corey Johnson, Milton Schorr, and Scot Cooper give compelling performances as the show's guides, and their insights into the immigrant experience have the potential to challenge viewers' biases and preconceived notions. In conclusion, this show is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding how immigration and immigrant communities have been instrumental in shaping America's identity.

America: Promised Land is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on May 29, 2017.