Watch America on Fire

America on Fire is a five-part documentary series produced by A&E which explores the multiple crises across America between 1967 and 1973. The show revolves around the social and political tensions that arose during this period, and the series focuses mainly on the urban riots that erupted in many American cities during the late sixties, the anti-war protests, and the struggle for civil rights.

The series starts by looking at the economic and social conditions of African Americans in the inner cities, which had become a powder keg by the 1960s, and follows the events that led to the rise of Black militantism and violence. The footage, photos, and interviews used in this documentary offer a vivid portrayal of the era, taking viewers back in time and showing them how, in a period of massive social unrest and cultural awakening, black and white Americans came together to challenge the status quo.

The opening scene sets the tone for the series, where viewers are transported to Detroit, where the 1967 race riot was the most destructive urban disturbance of the century, leaving an entire city block in ruins. The documentary shows how months of racial tension culminated in a violent confrontation between black protestors and the police, resulting in 43 dead and thousands injured. The series then dives into the specifics of this incident and other riots that occurred in cities across America.

As the series progresses, viewers are taken deeper into the causes for the unrest, such as the ongoing Vietnam War, which was creating disaffection among many young Americans, who saw the war as a moral travesty. The show reflects on how the war was tearing America apart, and how it ignited a sense of disillusionment among the American youth in particular.

The show also explores the bohemian culture of the 1960s, where sexual liberation, drug use, and the rise of rock and roll music were seen as a threat to the conservative American culture of the time. The documentary shows how the hippie movement challenged traditional American culture and helped usher in a new era of individualism and the pursuit of social justice.

Each episode of the series provides a comprehensive narrative of the events of the time, presenting interviews with the key figures involved in the struggle for civil rights, and the leaders of various social movements that arose from this period.

The show features interviews with prominent civil rights leaders such as Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, and James Clyburn, as well as archival footage of figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Huey Newton. Alongside these figures are stories of ordinary Americans who also played a part in the struggle for change, including everyday civil rights protesters and anti-war activists.

Throughout the series, the show explores the complex and often fraught relationships between different groups involved in the struggle for civil rights, from the Black Panthers to the feminist movement, and the often-oppressive state security apparatus responsible for maintaining law and order.

One of the most striking aspects of the series is the use of footage from the time, including interviews with residents of inner-city neighborhoods and those who lost homes or businesses during the riots. This footage brings the events of the era to life and provides viewers with an intimate look into the lives of those who lived through this tumultuous period.

Overall, America on Fire is a captivating documentary series that captures the energy and passion of the social and cultural movements that arose in America during the late sixties and early seventies. The show is an informative and engaging look at one of the most important periods in American history, exploring the roots of the social unrest we still experience today. Whether you lived through the era or want to learn more about the time, America on Fire provides a compelling and insightful look at the United States during this critical period.

America on Fire is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on October 18, 2018.