Nazi Attack On America

Watch Nazi Attack On America

  • 2015
  • 1 Season

Nazi Attack On America, produced by PBS and first aired in 2015, is a fascinating documentary that offers an in-depth look into a less-known chapter of World War II history. In the midst of the countless narratives exploring varying aspects of the Second World War, Nazi Attack on America proves uniquely intriguing as it brings light to a relatively hidden segment of the war that took place off the American shores.

The documentary revolves around the events leading up to and immediately following the attack on the SS Robert E. Lee, a civilian freighter vessel converted to accommodate passengers sailing from Trinidad to New Orleans in 1942. Expertly blending historical elements with a compelling detective narrative, the storyline uncovers the unforeseen repercussions of the war on the United States eastern seaboard, revealing the hidden battles fought not on land but underwater.

The story begins with an exploration of the SS Robert E. Lee’s final voyage and the subsequent torpedo attack by the German U-boat, U-166. With the involvement of more than 400 souls on board the ship, the account grows in complexity and depth, offering insight into the fear, courage, and will for survival that encapsulated those on board. While it resulted in the tragic loss of 25 lives, the incident and the returned fire from an accompanying American naval ship also led to the sinking of the German submarine, ultimately marking one of the relatively few U-boat losses in the Atlantic.

The program sees remarkable historical detective work and technology deployment as experts trace the pathways followed by the SS Robert E. Lee and the U-166. Utilizing state-of-the-art sonar technology and underwater robotics, researchers also scour the Gulf of Mexico's seabed in a painstaking effort to locate and examine the wreckage sites. This exploration offers viewers a rare and engrossing look at the remnants of the underwater battles that took place over 70 years ago.

Beyond the detective narrative, Nazi Attack On America also delves into the broader context of the war, particularly the impact of the German U-boat campaign on American soil. While World War II is broadly perceived as a conflict fought in distant lands, the show reveals the very real dangers and consequences that the war brought to U.S. waters, illuminating a lesser-known facet of American history.

Additionally, the documentary draws attention to the technological innovations and strategies adopted by both the German and American forces during the war. The devastating power of the German U-boats and the stealthy operation of these notorious predators of the seas are well represented. Viewers get insights into the ingenious defensive tactics employed by American naval forces in response to this formidable threat.

Moreover, Nazi Attack On America offers a balanced and nuanced perspective, featuring interviews with historians, military experts, and surviving members related to the players involved in the stealth war. The survivor accounts, combined with archive footage and recreations, truly bring the past alive.

The show is commendable for its presentation style. It is easy to follow, with vivid imagery that doesn't sugarcoat the horrific consequences of war. Despite its historical subject matter, the narrative is refreshing and paced to maintain viewer interest throughout. There is a clear focus on accuracy, research, and verifiable evidence — making it an informative piece of television couched within a captivating detective story set against the turbulent backdrop of World War II.

Overall, Nazi Attack on America presents a thought-provoking and well-researched trip into the past, spotlighting a lesser-known story of the Second World War. It is a compelling watch for history enthusiasts, WWII scholars, and general audiences alike who have an interest in the broad spectrum of events that connect to construct the global historical landscape.

Nazi Attack On America is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on May 6, 2015.

Nazi Attack On America
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NOVA: Nazi Attack On America
1. NOVA: Nazi Attack On America
May 6, 2015
Long before 9/11, a far deadlier, little-known attack from the ocean depths struck our shores, lasting three-and-a-half years and claiming 5,000 lives. Now, famed undersea explorer Bob Ballard, discoverer of the attack craft, a German submarine that lies at the bottom of the gulf just a few miles off New Orleans. U-166 was part of Operation Drumbeat, a highly successful U-boat operation that caught East Coast cities and shsuccessful U-boat operation that caught East Coast cities and shipping almost completely unprepared. With state-of-the-art survey gear, Ballard probes the wreck and explores a dramatic mystery in the official story of the sub's sinking.
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Where to Watch Nazi Attack On America
Nazi Attack On America is available for streaming on the PBS website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Nazi Attack On America on demand at Amazon Prime.
  • Premiere Date
    May 6, 2015