Watch America's Mississippi

America's Mississippi is a breathtaking documentary series from Smithsonian Channel that takes viewers on a journey down the length of the mighty Mississippi River. Covering over 2,000 miles, the Mississippi is one of the most iconic rivers in the world, and this visually stunning series explores the incredible natural beauty and rich history of the communities that call it home.

The series is split into six one-hour episodes, each focusing on a different section of the river along its length from its source in Minnesota to its delta in Louisiana. The first episode, titled "Headwaters to the Heartland," explores the river's origins in the lakes of Minnesota and follows it through the forests and prairies of the upper Midwest. Subsequent episodes take viewers further south, through the industrial heartland of the Midwest, the rural countryside of the Deep South, and the vibrant cities and bayous of Louisiana.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to the wide array of wildlife that inhabits the river and its surrounding ecosystems, from bald eagles and migrating waterfowl to snapping turtles and venomous cottonmouth snakes. Alongside these natural wonders, the series also delves into the rich cultural heritage of the river, exploring the music, food, and traditions of the communities that have lived along its banks for centuries.

One of the most impressive aspects of America's Mississippi is its incredible cinematography. Shot in stunning high-definition, the series captures the beauty and power of the river and its surrounding landscapes, from sweeping aerial shots of the river delta to intimate closeups of the wildlife that calls the river home. The filmmakers also make great use of time-lapse and slow-motion techniques to bring the river to life in ways that are both visually arresting and scientifically informative.

But America's Mississippi is more than just a pretty picture show. Each episode is carefully researched and provides fascinating insights into the social, economic, and environmental factors that have shaped the river and its surrounding communities. The series explores the devastating impact of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill on the fragile delta ecosystem, the impact of climate change on the river's flows and temperatures, and the legacy of slavery and segregation on the communities that live along the river.

Overall, America's Mississippi is a stunning documentary series that offers a deep and nuanced exploration of one of America's most iconic natural wonders. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this series is sure to captivate and inform you from start to finish. Highly recommended.

America's Mississippi is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between December 5, 2018 and on Smithsonian Channel