Watch Against All Odds: Israel Survives

Against All Odds: Israel Survives is a compelling and informative documentary series from PBS that chronicles the remarkable history of the State of Israel from its inception to the present day. The six-episode series explores the many challenges and obstacles that the country and its people have faced over the years, and the extraordinary resilience and determination that have allowed them to persevere against all odds.

The series begins by tracing the origins of the Zionist movement, which sought to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine, and the fraught political and social context in which it emerged. It focuses on the conflicts and tensions between Jews and Arabs in the region, highlighting the complex historical and cultural dynamics that continue to shape the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to this day.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to a diverse range of individuals whose personal experiences and perspectives help to illuminate various aspects of Israel's history and contemporary reality. These include Holocaust survivors, military veterans, politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens from all walks of life. The interviews are supplemented with extensive archival footage and expert commentary from historians, political scientists, and other scholars.

One of the strengths of Against All Odds is its willingness to engage with difficult and controversial topics, and to present multiple perspectives on contentious issues. The series does not shy away from the darker aspects of Israel's history, including the displacement of Palestinian communities following the establishment of the State, the Six-Day War and its aftermath, and the ongoing occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. However, it also highlights Israel's achievements and successes, such as its vibrant culture, technological innovations, and democratic institutions.

Beyond its historical and political content, the series also touches on a range of social and cultural themes, including gender equality, religious diversity, and the role of the arts in Israeli society. It features interviews with prominent Israeli writers, musicians, and other cultural figures, who share their perspectives on the unique challenges and opportunities of Israeli creative life.

Throughout the series, viewers are presented with a nuanced and complex portrait of Israel, one that recognizes both its triumphs and its struggles. The narration is thoughtful and insightful, and the overall tone is respectful and compassionate, both toward Israel and Palestine.

Overall, Against All Odds: Israel Survives is a powerful and illuminating series that provides a rich and multifaceted exploration of one of the world's most complex and enduring conflicts. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Middle Eastern history, politics, or culture, as well as for viewers seeking to deepen their understanding of the ongoing challenges facing Israel and its neighbors.

Against All Odds: Israel Survives is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (14 episodes). The series first aired on October 10, 2006.