America: Facts vs. Fiction Season 3 Episode 10 Final Voyages

In the season 3 episode 10 of America: Facts vs. Fiction titled "Final Voyages," viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the truth behind some of America's most famous voyages and the myths surrounding them.

The episode begins by exploring the doomed voyage of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, infamous for sinking in Lake Superior during a storm in 1975. Experts weigh in on the various theories surrounding the cause of the ship's sinking, including whether it was due to human error or the weather conditions. Viewers also learn about the various technological advancements made in the shipping industry since the tragedy, as well as the continued efforts to improve safety standards.

Next, the episode shifts its focus to the storied voyage of the Mayflower, which brought the Pilgrims to the shores of what is now Massachusetts in 1620. The show delves into the myths surrounding the journey, including the popular narrative that the Pilgrims sought religious freedom and established Thanksgiving in America. Experts offer a more nuanced understanding of the Pilgrims' motivations and highlight the contributions of Indigenous people to the survival of the settlers in the unfamiliar land.

The episode then turns to the infamous voyage of the luxury liner the Titanic, which famously hit an iceberg and sunk on its maiden voyage in 1912. The show explores the various myths surrounding the Titanic's demise, including the idea that the ship was deemed "unsinkable" and that the crew were at fault for not spotting the iceberg in time. Viewers also learn about the various class structures that existed on the Titanic and how they influenced the dynamics onboard the ship.

In the final segment of the episode, viewers are introduced to the tragic voyage of the USS Indianapolis, a Naval cruiser that was torpedoed and sunk during World War II. The show offers a detailed account of the ship's mission, including its secret role in delivering key components of the atomic bomb to the Pacific Theater. Viewers also learn about the harrowing experiences of the survivors, including how they were left stranded in shark-infested waters for days before being rescued.

Throughout the episode, experts weigh in on the truths and myths surrounding each of these voyages, piecing together a more accurate picture of these famous events in American history. The use of archival footage and expert interviews provides a fascinating look into these key moments in American history, shedding light on the beliefs and misconceptions that have persisted for generations.

Overall, "Final Voyages" is a captivating episode of America: Facts vs. Fiction that offers a fresh perspective on some of America's most iconic voyages.