Watch Year of Extremes

Year of Extremes is a documentary miniseries produced by ABC News that explores the tumultuous events of the year 1968. The show delves deep into the political, social, and cultural upheavals that defined that year, from the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement to the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with experts and eyewitnesses, and dramatic reenactments, Year of Extremes takes viewers on a journey through one of the most consequential years in modern history. The series is divided into six episodes, each of which focuses on a different theme or event that defined the year.

The first episode, "The Tet Offensive," examines the surprise attack launched by North Vietnamese forces against American and South Vietnamese troops in January 1968. The attack caught U.S. military leaders off guard and marked a turning point in the Vietnam War, eroding public support for the conflict and raising doubts about America's ability to win.

The second episode, "The Assassinations," looks at the shocking murders of two prominent figures within months of each other: Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy. The killings shook the nation to its core and raised important questions about the state of American democracy.

In the third episode, "The Democratic Convention," viewers are taken to Chicago in August 1968, where chaos erupted during the Democratic National Convention. Anti-war protesters clashed violently with police in the streets, while inside the convention hall, a bitter battle over the party's nomination for president played out.

The fourth episode, "The Mexico Olympics," shifts the focus to the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. The games were marked by controversy and tragedy, including a protest by black American athletes against racial discrimination and the murder of dozens of student activists by Mexican security forces.

The fifth episode, "The Prague Spring," explores the political reforms and protests that swept across Czechoslovakia in 1968, culminating in a Soviet-led invasion that crushed the movement and solidified Soviet control over Eastern Europe.

The final episode, "The Great Divide," looks at the aftermath of 1968 and the legacy it left behind. The show examines how the events of that year changed America and the world, shaping the political landscape and inspiring new social movements.

Throughout Year of Extremes, viewers are treated to a wealth of historical footage, including newsreels, interviews, and speeches by some of the most important figures of the time. The series also features insightful commentary from historians, journalists, and other experts who help to contextualize the events of 1968 and their impact on the world today.

In sum, Year of Extremes is a gripping and powerful documentary series that provides a fascinating window into one of the most tumultuous and transformative years in modern history. With its expert storytelling, vivid imagery, and insightful commentary, the show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the 20th century.