Ep 22. Empire State Building

Modern Marvels season 1 episode 22 takes a closer look at one of the most iconic structures of American history – the Empire State Building. Home to many famous movies, the building stands tall in the heart of New York City, attracting millions of visitors every year. In this episode, viewers will learn about the history, construction, and technology that went into the creation of this impressive skyscraper.

The episode begins by delving into the historical significance of the building and the time in which it was built. During the Great Depression, the United States was facing a lot of economic hardships, and the Empire State Building was seen as a beacon of hope and optimism. The episode walks us through the process of designing the building, and highlights some of the challenges that the engineers faced. The building's unique Art Deco style is also discussed, as well as the symbolism behind its design.

One of the most fascinating elements of the episode is how it covers the construction of the Empire State Building. At the time, it was the tallest building in the world, and constructing such a building was no small feat. The episode explains how thousands of workers were hired to construct the building, and how the materials were transported up to the top of the building. Viewers will also learn about the new technologies that were developed to help complete the project, such as the Otis Elevator. The elevator was revolutionary at the time, as it allowed the workers to travel up and down the building quickly and efficiently.

The program highlights the challenges that the engineers faced during the construction process. For instance, the building was initially designed to include airship docks at the top, which would allow for transatlantic passenger travel. However, this idea was eventually abandoned due to the weather conditions and safety concerns.

The episode concludes by discussing the Empire State Building's enduring legacy. Since its completion in 1931, the building has served as a symbol of American ingenuity and resilience. Viewers will learn how the building has been used as a location in many popular movies, and how it remains an important tourist attraction to this day.

Overall, Modern Marvels season 1 episode 22 does an excellent job of exploring the Empire State Building's history, construction, and impact on American culture. The episode is engaging, informative, and provides a unique perspective on one of America's most iconic landmarks.