Understanding America

Firstly, a recap of the major themes of the previous episodes, highlighting the points to keep in mind as we build a complex picture of those hidden influences on the American psyche. Then, we look at just another example of nature's incredible power, and are reminded of how vulnerable humans can be. Lastly, we explore an exclusive sport that set the very rich apart from everyone else, and directly contributed to the elevation of the gun as a symbol of equality. 

Continuing on from Part 1, we look at some of the other diseases that affected people until the recent development of modern medicines, and we find out how the suffering of people in England would have had an impact on the early British immigrants to North America.

One family's story shines a light on a trauma faced by the first European settlers of the North American continent.

Did your country build its identity over thousands of years, or only over hundreds? How connected do you feel to your fellow countrymen and women? Have you stopped to think how your country came to be the way it is?
Episode 1 explores one of the most fundamental traits societies posses, and starts to lay the first part of a unique way of looking at the development of the American character.

What makes up a national identity? What are the drivers of people's behaviour?
This episode explores the different ingredients that go into making cultural traits, and introduces the second key factor in creating the strong streak of individualism that sets the USA apart from most other countries.