Watch FDR: Years of Crisis

FDR: Years of Crisis is a gripping documentary series that explores the tumultuous life and times of one of America's most iconic leaders, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Drawing on a range of historical sources and archival footage, the series provides a vivid and gripping portrait of FDR's presidency, from the depths of the Great Depression to his crucial leadership during World War II.

The show is divided into several episodes, each of which focuses on a particular phase of FDR's presidency. The first episode, for example, examines his rise to power in the midst of the economic crisis of the 1930s. As millions of Americans lost their jobs, homes, and hope, FDR emerged as a charismatic and energetic leader who promised to restore the nation's prosperity and pride.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to a wealth of historical context and analysis, as well as interviews with leading scholars, writers, and experts on American politics and history. From the inner workings of FDR's administration to the debates that shaped his policies, the show offers a nuanced and multifaceted view of one of the most important periods in American history.

Despite the breadth of its scope and the depth of its research, FDR: Years of Crisis is never dry or academic. On the contrary, the show is full of suspense, drama, and human interest, as we witness the highs and lows of FDR's personal and political life. We see him grappling with the crippling effects of polio, struggling to maintain his marriage to Eleanor, and navigating the complex world of international diplomacy during World War II.

One of the most compelling aspects of the show is its emphasis on FDR's political skill and savvy. As we watch him maneuver through the treacherous waters of Depression-era Washington, we see him developing the political tools that would serve him so well throughout his presidency. Whether forging alliances with powerful interest groups or playing hardball with recalcitrant Congressmen, FDR emerges as a masterful politician who not only navigated but reshaped the political landscape of his era.

Throughout the series, we witness the sheer magnitude of FDR's achievements, from the New Deal programs that transformed the nation's social and economic landscape, to the leadership he displayed during the darkest days of World War II. At the same time, we also see the limitations of his vision and the compromises he had to make to achieve his goals.

Overall, FDR: Years of Crisis is a fascinating and illuminating look at one of America's most iconic leaders. Whether you're a student of American history, a political junkie, or simply a fascinated viewer, this series is sure to captivate and inform you. With its rich array of historical detail, vivid storytelling, and insightful analysis, it is a stirring tribute to one of America's greatest presidents.

FDR: Years of Crisis is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between November 23, 1994 and on Biography Channel