MartinHafer I loved this documentary for two main reasons. First, the period covering our first three Presidents is pretty much a void for documentaries--especially the terms of George Washington. Considering how important they were in setting precedents and working through what, exactly, the office entails, it's the most important period in the nation's history---but it's something most Americans know almost nothing-- about although they certainly should. Second, the show was made so exquisitely. Although you don't have photos, video and the like for this time period, the filmmakers used actors to recreate some scenes as well as the voice talents of some VERY prestigious actors--which, I am surprised the History Channel could afford--including James Woods, Michael York Hal Holbrook and others. In addition, the wonderful historian David McCullough participated--which is important as he's written perhaps the best book on John Adams. All in all, there's nothing not to like and I have no criticism whatsoever--and that's very rare! Excellent history and enjoyable from start to finish. It's made up up four episodes totaling about three hours--and they seemed to go by very quickly.

movie_imdb The "self evident" truths were intensely debated in America's first years. Washington, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Adams, Madison and Burr struggled to transform their desperate visions into an enduring government.Based on Joseph Ellis's Pulittzed Prize winning book, Founding Brothers examines six moments when the collision and collusions of these towering figures left an indelible imprint on the nation: the secret dinner that determined the site of the capital and America's financial future; Benjamin Franklin's call for an end to slavery; George Washington's farewell address to the nation; John Adams's term as president; Hamilton and Burr's famous and fatal duel; and the final reconciliation between Adams and Jefferson.Drawing on the words of the founders and incisive commentary from leading scholars, Founding Brothers is an elegant and engaging portrait of America's origins in personal conflict and compromise.