Watch Native America

Native America is a four-part documentary television series from PBS, which first aired on October 23rd, 2018. It is a groundbreaking program that provides a detailed exploration of the pre-Columbian history, culture, and legacy of Native American societies. The series is hosted by musician and filmmaker Robbie Robertson, who is a member of the Mohawk Nation and one of the founding members of the band The Band. He brings his unique perspective and Native American heritage to the show, adding his insights and personal experiences to the discussion.

Native America examines the history and culture of Native Americans across North, Central, and South America, spanning thousands of years. The series explores the fascinating archaeological evidence of the indigenous peoples, their impact, and their interaction with nature, science, and spirituality.

Through the four episodes, the show takes viewers on a journey through the ancient civilizations that flourished across the Americas. It examines the rise of cultures such as the Maya, Inca, and the Mississippian peoples, and their important contributions to science, engineering, agriculture, and the arts.

Each episode focuses on a different aspect of Native American history and culture. The first episode, "From Caves to Cosmos," explores how the ancient civilizations of the Americas developed advanced astronomical knowledge, which enabled them to create sophisticated calendars and track the movements of the stars and planets.

The second episode, "Nature to Nations," examines how Native Americans ingeniously adapted to their environments and established complex societies, managing natural resources with great care and respect, and developing elaborate trade networks that spanned vast distances.

The third episode, "Cities of the Sky," tells the story of the great cities of the Americas, such as Machu Picchu and Cahokia, and how they were constructed with innovative engineering techniques, intricate designs, and amazing architectural feats.

The final installment, "New World Rising," reflects on the impact of European arrival and the forced relocation of Native Americans. It examines the Native American resistance and cultural resilience, and how traditional customs and beliefs helped to preserve the people's identity and culture.

Throughout the episodes, the show provides a unique perspective on Native American history, often misunderstood or ignored in traditional Western narratives. The documentary highlights the unique cultures of these groups, their contributions, and their struggles to maintain their identity under colonial rule.

The show also features interviews with experts in the field, including Yan Garcia, a Maya scholar who provides fascinating insights into the complex legacy of the Maya civilization, and David Carrasco, a Harvard University professor who brings his extensive knowledge of Mesoamerican and Aztec cultures to the discussion.

The series is a visual marvel, blending stunning landscapes and historic sites with cutting-edge CGI and animation, making it an immersive and engaging experience for audiences. This expertly crafted series is the result of years of research and shooting, and it serves as an important educational tool for anyone who wants to learn more about Native American history and its lasting legacy.

Overall, Native America is an impressive documentary series that both educates and entertains. It provides an honest and comprehensive portrayal of a rich history and culture that has often been overlooked. The show serves as an invitation to explore the remarkable cultures of the Americas and their lasting contributions to the world.

Native America is a series that ran for 2 seasons (8 episodes) between October 23, 2018 and on PBS