New York: A Documentary Film - Season 1 - Eps 1: The Country and the City (1609–1825)
The series begins by identifying the key themes that shaped New York's history: commerce and capitalism, diversity and democracy, transformation and creativity. The episode charts the development of the city founded by the Dutch as a purely commercial enterprise, first as New Amsterdam, a freewheeling enclave of trade and opportunity; then as the British New York, a colony fueled by slavery which was bestowed as a birthday gift upon the Duke of York by his brother, King Charles; soon after as a strategically pivotal locale in the American Revolution; and ultimately as the city of New York: the nation's first capital and the place destined to define urban life in America -- and American ideals.
About New York: A Documentary Film
Title: New York: A Documentary Film
First Air Date: 1999-11-14
Last Air Date: 2003-09-08
Status: Ended
Rating: 7.5/10 (from 2 votes)
Language: EN
Seasons: 1
Total Episodes: 8
Network: PBS
Genres: Documentary
Production Companies: Steeplechase Films, GBH, Thirteen
Synopsis
This eight-part, 16½-hour television event explores New York City's rich history as the premier laboratory of modern life. A sweeping narrative covering nearly 400 years and 400 square miles, it reveals a complex and dynamic city that has played an unparalleled role in shaping the nation and reflecting its ideals.
Cast
David Ogden Stiers
Narrator
Kenneth Jackson
Self - Commentator
Mike Wallace
Self - Commentator
John Steele Gordon
Self - Commentator
Robert A.M. Stern
Self - Commentator
