American Experience · Season 15, Episode 7
Charting the race between the Union Pacific and Central Pacific to construct a transcontinental railroad to link the U.S. It ended May 10, 1869, in Promontory Point, Utah. The construction was "the engineering marvel of the 19th century -- and a flat-out swindle,” says narrator Michael Murphy. It was also "the technological manifestation of Manifest Destiny,” says historian Wendell Huffman, one of the program's commentators. And it sealed the fate of the Plains Indians. When the final spike was in place, Murphy says, "America could take its place as the first nation in the world."
Episode 7 of Season 15 from American Experience — available to stream in HD on any device.
Join the conversation
Sign in to leave a comment
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts!
Recommended
Antiques Road Trip
Mayday
Фитиль
MythBusters
The Curse of Oak Island
Horizon
FEDS
Accused: A Mother on Trial
Chambre 2806 : l'affaire DSK
Accused: Guilty or Innocent?
Search for movies, TV shows, collections, manga, or people
Trending Now