America: Facts vs. Fiction Season 3 Episode 5 Kings of the Sky
- TV-PG
- October 27, 2015
- 22 min
-
7.4 (5)
In the America: Facts vs. Fiction season 3 episode 5 titled "Kings of the Sky," viewers are taken on a journey through the history of aviation in the United States. The episode explores the various myths and legends surrounding some of the most important figures in aviation history, including the Wright brothers and Amelia Earhart.
As the episode begins, viewers are introduced to the Wright brothers, who are often credited with inventing the airplane. However, the episode challenges this belief by exploring the many other aviation pioneers who were working on similar projects during the same time period. Viewers learn about Gustave Whitehead, who many believe flew before the Wright brothers, as well as Samuel P. Langley, who was working on a flying machine for the United States government.
The episode also dives into the myth that the Wright brothers were the first to fly a heavier-than-air aircraft, pointing out that this is not entirely accurate. While the Wright brothers certainly made significant contributions to the aviation industry, there were others who were working on similar projects at the same time.
From there, the episode moves on to explore the achievements of other aviation icons, including Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart. While Lindbergh is often heralded as the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic, the episode points out that he was not actually the first person to attempt the feat. What's more, the episode reveals that there were many other pilots who were also trying to cross the Atlantic at the same time, some of whom were even attempting the journey in smaller and less powerful airplanes than Lindbergh's.
Similarly, the episode examines the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Amelia Earhart, who was attempting to fly around the world when she vanished. While the episode doesn't offer any new clues about what may have happened to Earhart, it does explore some of the myths and legends that have grown up around her disappearance, including the belief that she was actually a spy for the United States government.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a mix of reenactments and expert interviews, as well as plenty of archival footage from the early days of aviation. The show strikes a good balance between entertainment and education, offering viewers an engaging look at some of the most fascinating figures in American history.
Overall, "Kings of the Sky" is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in aviation or American history in general. Regardless of whether you're a history buff or just looking for an interesting way to spend an hour, this episode is sure to entertain and educate. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn the truth about some of America's most famous aviators.