Watch Presidents at War

Presidents at War is a gripping historical documentary series that combines archival footage, expert commentary, and dramatic reenactments to explore the crises and conflicts that shaped the presidencies of four American leaders during World War II: Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and John F. Kennedy. Produced by History, the series premiered in 2019 and consists of four hour-long episodes, each focusing on one of these presidents and their experiences during wartime.

The first episode, titled "Franklin Roosevelt: Commander in Chief," examines the challenges that Roosevelt faced as he led the United States through the early years of World War II. From the diplomatic negotiations of the Atlantic Charter to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, this episode highlights Roosevelt's strategic thinking and political acumen in the face of adversity. Through interviews with historians and insights from Roosevelt's own writings and speeches, viewers are given a glimpse into the mind of one of the most iconic American presidents in history.

The second episode, "Harry Truman: The Buck Stops Here," explores the tumultuous years of Truman's presidency, as he grappled with the aftermath of World War II and the challenges of the Cold War. From Truman's decision to use atomic bombs on Japan to his confrontation with the Soviet Union over Berlin, this episode shows how Truman's pragmatic approach to foreign policy helped shape the post-war world order. Through interviews with Truman biographers and historians, as well as archival footage and dramatic reenactments, viewers gain a deeper understanding of one of America's most controversial leaders.

The third episode, "Dwight D. Eisenhower: Supreme Commander," focuses on Eisenhower's role as the commander of Allied forces in Europe during World War II and later as the president who helped build the military-industrial complex. From the D-Day invasion to the Korean War, this episode illustrates Eisenhower's leadership style and his ability to navigate the complex politics of war. Through interviews with military experts and historians, as well as rare footage of Eisenhower's speeches and interactions with world leaders, viewers see how this legendary figure helped shape American foreign policy for decades to come.

The final episode, "John F. Kennedy: Commander in Crisis," explores Kennedy's presidency and his response to the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Through interviews with Kennedy's aides and advisors, as well as archival footage and reenactments, viewers gain insight into Kennedy's vision for American leadership in the world and his ability to mobilize the nation in times of crisis. From the Bay of Pigs to the nuclear brinkmanship of the Cuban Missile Crisis, this episode shows how Kennedy's leadership and resolve helped avert a catastrophic confrontation between the superpowers.

Overall, Presidents at War is a fascinating and insightful series that offers a fresh perspective on the lives and legacies of some of America's most iconic leaders. By combining historical footage, expert commentary, and dramatic reenactments, the series brings the complex geopolitics of World War II and the Cold War to life in a way that is both informative and entertaining. Whether you're a history buff or simply interested in the people and events that shaped American foreign policy, Presidents at War is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal era in American history.

Presidents at War is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on February 17, 2019.