The Presidents Collection

Watch The Presidents Collection

  • 1994
  • 1 Season

The Presidents Collection from WGBH is a fascinating documentary series that explores the lives and legacies of the presidents of the United States. This series takes viewers on a journey through history, examining the triumphs and tragedies of each president and providing insight into the events that shaped their presidencies.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to each president in turn, from George Washington to Donald Trump. The episodes are organized chronologically, with each episode focusing on a single president and their unique contributions and challenges. Viewers will gain a deep understanding of American history as they watch the series, and will learn about key events such as the American Revolution, the Civil War, World War I and II, the Cold War, and the modern era.

The Presidents Collection is a thoroughly researched and compelling series that gives viewers a unique look into the lives of America's leaders. Each episode is packed with fascinating historical footage, expert commentary, and insights from contemporary historians. Through interviews with noted historians, political leaders, and scholars, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by each president in their time.

One of the many strengths of The Presidents Collection is its focus on the humanity of these powerful leaders. The series provides an intimate look at the personal lives of each president, detailing their relationships with their families, their hobbies, and their private struggles. From the intense pressure of leading the country during times of war and crisis, to the joys of personal triumphs, The Presidents Collection offers a nuanced and humanizing portrayal of these iconic figures.

In addition to exploring the personal lives of the presidents, The Presidents Collection also delves into the major policy accomplishments of each administration. From Washington's leadership during the Revolutionary War to Obama's landmark healthcare reform, the series provides a detailed look at the major policy decisions that shaped each presidency. Viewers will learn about the successes, failures, and controversies of each administration, and will come away with a deeper understanding of how American politics has evolved over time.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Presidents Collection is its relevance to current events. The series offers valuable insight into the political and social issues that have shaped American history, and illuminates the ways that current events are influenced by the policies and decisions of past administrations. By understanding the lessons of history, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by contemporary political leaders and gain a more nuanced view of the issues facing the country today.

Overall, The Presidents Collection from WGBH is an exceptional documentary series that offers a rich and engaging exploration of American history. By providing a deep dive into the lives and legacies of each president, the series offers a nuanced and humanizing portrait of these iconic figures. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in understanding the complex factors that shape American politics, The Presidents Collection is a must-watch series that will leave you informed, engaged, and inspired.

The Presidents Collection is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on October 11, 1994.

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Seasons
Reagan, Pt. 2
12. Reagan, Pt. 2
February 23, 1998
Solidarity thrived in Poland; Soviets faced military pressure in Afghanistan, but Congress cut funding for Nicaragua. In 1986 Reagan met Mikhail Gorbachev, but missile reduction talks failed over SDI research. The Iran-Contra scandal broke. Gorbachev signed a missile reduction treaty. Reagan visited Moscow in 1988, but his dream of ending the Soviet Union came after retirement in 1989. Soon after, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This is the second of two parts.
Reagan, Pt. 1
11. Reagan, Pt. 1
February 23, 1998
Solidarity thrived in Poland; Soviets faced military pressure in Afghanistan, but Congress cut funding for Nicaragua. In 1986 Reagan met Mikhail Gorbachev, but missile reduction talks failed over SDI research. The Iran-Contra scandal broke. Gorbachev signed a missile reduction treaty. Reagan visited Moscow in 1988, but his dream of ending the Soviet Union came after retirement in 1989. Soon after, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This is the first of two parts.
Jimmy Carter, Pt. 2
10. Jimmy Carter, Pt. 2
November 11, 2002
Jimmy Carter ran for president on a wave of post-Watergate disaffection with Washington politics. But inexperience, inflation, recession, and the Iran hostage crisis, derailed his presidency dramatically. His crowning achievement, the Camp David Accords, created a framework for Middle East peace, inspiring his life since. The film traces his ascent from Plains, Georgia, to the Oval Office and explores the role of religion in his career. This is the second of two parts.
Jimmy Carter, Pt. 1
9. Jimmy Carter, Pt. 1
November 11, 2002
Jimmy Carter ran for president on a wave of post-Watergate disaffection with Washington politics. But inexperience, inflation, recession, and the Iran hostage crisis, derailed his presidency dramatically. His crowning achievement, the Camp David Accords, created a framework for Middle East peace, inspiring his life since. The film traces his ascent from Plains, Georgia, to the Oval Office and explores the role of religion in his career. This is the first of two parts.
Nixon, Pt. 2
8. Nixon, Pt. 2
October 15, 1990
Richard M. Nixon was one of American history's most powerful figures. Recalling events etched in U.S. memory, this three-hour program explores a fateful mix of strength and weakness that made him president, then brought him down. Events revealing Nixon's distinctive signature in American politics, from a meteoric rise to Congress to the presidency and the morass of Watergate, unfold in three parts: The Quest, Triumph, and The Fall. This is the second of two parts.
Nixon, Pt. 1
7. Nixon, Pt. 1
October 15, 1990
Richard M. Nixon was one of American history's most powerful figures. Recalling events etched in U.S. memory, this three-hour program explores a fateful mix of strength and weakness that made him president, then brought him down. Events revealing Nixon's distinctive signature in American politics, from a meteoric rise to Congress to the presidency and the morass of Watergate, unfold in three parts: The Quest, Triumph, and The Fall. This is the first of two parts.
LBJ, Pt. 2
6. LBJ, Pt. 2
September 30, 1991
Award winning filmmaker David Grubin profiles one of the most controversial U.S. presidents, Lyndon Baines Johnson, who rose from obscurity to the pinnacle of power, only to suffer disillusionment and defeat. Witness the events that brought LBJ from Texas to Washington, the White House, and a landslide election in 1964. Follow his triumphs in passing a wave of social legislation then his downward spiral which ends in withdrawal from politics. This is the second of two parts.
LBJ, Pt. 1
5. LBJ, Pt. 1
September 30, 1991
Award winning filmmaker David Grubin profiles one of the most controversial U.S. presidents, Lyndon Baines Johnson, who rose from obscurity to the pinnacle of power, only to suffer disillusionment and defeat. Witness the events that brought LBJ from Texas to Washington, the White House, and a landslide election in 1964. Follow his triumphs in passing a wave of social legislation then his downward spiral which ends in withdrawal from politics. This is the first of two parts.
Truman, Pt. 2
4. Truman, Pt. 2
June 10, 1997
He was a farmer, a businessman, an unknown politician who suddenly found himself president. Of all the men who had held the highest office, Harry Truman was the least prepared, but would prove to be a surprise. Acclaimed filmmaker David Grubin recounts his struggles and success as an army captain and marriage to his lifelong sweetheart, Bess. When he landed the vice presidency in 1944 he had no idea that his world was about to change forever. This is the second of two parts.
Truman, Pt. 1
3. Truman, Pt. 1
June 10, 1997
He was a farmer, a businessman, an unknown politician who suddenly found himself president. Of all the men who had held the highest office, Harry Truman was the least prepared, but would prove to be a surprise. Acclaimed filmmaker David Grubin recounts his struggles and success as an army captain and marriage to his lifelong sweetheart, Bess. When he landed the vice presidency in 1944 he had no idea that his world was about to change forever. This is the first of two parts.
FDR, Pt. 2
2. FDR, Pt. 2
October 11, 1994
Polio at age 39, president at age 50. Explore the public and private life of a determined man who steered this country through two monumental crises: the Depression and World War II. FDR served as president longer than any other, and his legacy still shapes our understanding of the role of government and the presidency. A film by award winning filmmaker David Grubin. This is the second of two parts.
FDR, Pt. 1
1. FDR, Pt. 1
October 11, 1994
Polio at age 39, president at age 50. Explore the public and private life of a determined man who steered this country through two monumental crises: the Depression and World War II. FDR served as president longer than any other, and his legacy still shapes our understanding of the role of government and the presidency. A film by award winning filmmaker David Grubin. This is the first of two parts.
Description
Where to Watch The Presidents Collection
The Presidents Collection is available for streaming on the WGBH website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Presidents Collection on demand at Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    October 11, 1994