Ep 41. Made in the USA

Made in the USA is the 16th season and 41st episode of the popular documentary television series Modern Marvels. As the title suggests, this episode focuses on the products and technologies that are made in the USA, highlighting the country's ingenuity and innovation.

The episode begins by narrating the story of Grado Labs, a family-owned business in Brooklyn that has been making high-quality headphones for over 60 years. Grado is known for its unique design and use of premium materials, which has earned it a loyal following among audiophiles worldwide. The episode then moves to the town of South Bend, Indiana, where the Studebaker National Museum houses a collection of classic cars made in the USA. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the Studebaker company, which was once the largest wagon manufacturer in the world.

From there, the episode moves to the production of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, an American icon that has been made in the USA for over a century. The documentary covers the manufacturing process of the bikes, including the design, assembly, and testing. It also delves into the culture of Harley-Davidson, which has a passionate following among riders who see the motorcycle as a symbol of freedom and adventure.

The next segment of the episode highlights the USA's aircraft industry, featuring Bell Helicopter Textron, a company that has been making helicopters in America for over 80 years. The documentary takes viewers through the manufacturing process of the advanced V-22 Osprey, a unique aircraft that can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, but can also fly like a plane. The episode also covers the role of American aviation in World War II, including the story of the iconic B-17 bomber, known as the "Flying Fortress."

No episode about the products made in the USA would be complete without covering food and drink, and this episode is no exception. The documentary features the history of Coca-Cola, one of the most famous American brands in the world. It explores the ingredients, manufacturing process, and marketing of the soft drink, as well as the company's role in globalization.

The last segment of the episode focuses on the manufacturing of innovative materials and products, such as carbon fiber, machine tools, and synthetic diamonds. The episode explores the technological advancements that have made these materials possible, as well as their applications in various industries, including aerospace and medicine.

Overall, Made in the USA is an informative and engaging look at the products and technologies that have made America a world leader in innovation. Through its fascinating stories and behind-the-scenes glimpses of manufacturing processes, the documentary celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of American businesses and workers.