Ep 1. Episode 1

As the United States sits on the brink of what many consider to be the most contentious presidential election of modern times, "America's Great Divide: From Obama to Trump" looks back at how the country arrived at this moment.

In the first episode of season 1, aptly titled "Episode 1," viewers are taken on a journey through the first half of the Obama presidency. The episode begins with a montage of highlights from Obama's historic 2008 election, showcasing the hope and optimism felt by millions of Americans at that time. As the episode progresses, however, the tone shifts to a more somber one as the country becomes more polarized and divided over issues such as healthcare, race, and the economy.

Through interviews with historians, politicians, and key players in the Obama administration, "Episode 1" explores the challenges faced by Obama during his first term in office. From the fight to pass the Affordable Care Act to the rise of the Tea Party movement, the episode does not shy away from controversial topics.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is its exploration of how the Obama presidency impacted race relations in the United States. Through interviews with Americans of different races and backgrounds, viewers get a sense of the complicated and often fraught relationship between race and politics in the country. The episode also touches on the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, which emerged during Obama's second term.

Throughout the episode, viewers are reminded of just how divided the country became during the Obama presidency. At times, the conversations could be difficult to watch, as interviewees spoke candidly about the anger and frustration they felt toward both Obama and his opponents. But through it all, "Episode 1" manages to stay grounded in a sense of historical context, reminding viewers that some of the issues facing the country today are not entirely new.

As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a sense of unease about the future of the country. While Obama's presidency had many successes, it also revealed deep-seated divisions that still exist today. The episode ends with a quote from historian Jon Meacham, who notes that the United States has always been a country of "hope and fear." It's a fitting end to an episode that manages to capture both the highs and lows of the Obama presidency.

Overall, "America's Great Divide: From Obama to Trump" is a compelling and timely exploration of one of the most contentious periods in recent American history. "Episode 1" sets the stage for what promises to be an intense and thought-provoking series, one that is sure to spark conversation and debate among viewers.