Watch Silicon Valley American Experience

Silicon Valley American Experience is a three-part documentary series produced by PBS that explores the rise of the technology industry in the United States. The film chronicles the evolution of Silicon Valley from its humble beginnings as a fruit orchard to the dominant force in the global technology industry. The first episode titled "Part One: The Prophets of Boom" sets the stage for the series by introducing viewers to the key players who laid the foundation for the tech revolution that would follow. The film features interviews with industry pioneers such as Robert Noyce, co-founder of Intel, and Doug Engelbart, inventor of the computer mouse. The episode goes on to examine the impact of the Cold War on the growth of the industry, and how the race to create advanced computer technology fueled innovation and investment.

The second episode, "Part Two: Inventing the Future" delves deeper into the specific innovations and breakthroughs that drove the industry forward. The film highlights the work of Xerox PARC, the research lab that developed the graphical user interface and ethernet networking, among other advances. The episode also examines the impact of venture capital on the industry and how it enabled entrepreneurs to pursue their visions.

The final episode, "Part Three: The Future Was Yesterday" provides an overview of the industry's current state, and the challenges it faces in the future. The film explores the rise of social media, the impact of globalization and outsourcing, and the ethical concerns surrounding ubiquitous technology. The episode concludes by speculating about what comes next for the industry and its role in shaping the global economy.

Throughout the series, the film offers a rich historical context for understanding the rise of the technology industry, documenting the societal and cultural shifts that enabled its growth. The documentary draws on interviews with many of the industry's leading figures and features rare archival footage and images that bring Silicon Valley's story to life. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply curious about how this industry came to dominate our lives, Silicon Valley American Experience offers a fascinating and engaging exploration of this remarkable chapter in American history.