NOVA Season 7 Episode 7 Bridge That Spanned The World (The)

In the NOVA season 7 episode 7 titled "Bridge That Spanned The World (The)", viewers are taken on a historical journey exploring the construction and impact of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California.

The episode begins by highlighting the need for a bridge to connect San Francisco to Marin County in the early 20th century. The only options for transportation across the bay included ferries, which often delayed travel and caused traffic congestion.

Viewers are introduced to Chief Engineer Joseph Strauss, who was tasked with designing and building the bridge. Strauss faced numerous challenges, including convincing skeptics that a bridge could withstand the strong winds and currents of the San Francisco Bay, and finding funding for the project during the Great Depression.

Throughout the episode, viewers learn about the design and construction processes of the Golden Gate Bridge. The design team consisted of several experts, including Leon Moisseiff, who created the delicate yet strong suspension system. Additionally, the workers faced dangerous conditions, such as the risk of falling from great heights, while building the bridge.

The episode also highlights the impact of the Golden Gate Bridge on San Francisco and the surrounding areas. During construction, the bridge employed thousands of workers and helped stimulate the local economy. Once completed, the bridge became an iconic symbol of the city, drawing tourists and visitors from all over the world. It also allowed for easier transportation and access to the northern areas of the Bay Area.

One aspect of the episode that may surprise viewers is the risks associated with the bridge's construction and maintenance. For example, workers and engineers had to combat corrosion caused by the saltwater and humid air that surrounded the bridge. Additionally, maintenance workers had to face the daunting task of painting the entire bridge by hand every few years to prevent rust and corrosion.

Overall, "Bridge That Spanned The World (The)" provides a captivating and informative look into the design, construction, and impact of the Golden Gate Bridge. Viewers can expect to gain a deeper appreciation for the bridge and the ingenuity required to build such a landmark structure.