What is a good documentary on American History?

America: The Story of Us

From executive producer Jane Root of Planet Earth, comes the breathtaking journey through history--unlike any other in the past 40 years--with live-action recreations of key historical events through the use of cutting edge CGI animation, giving v... read more...

I just finished watching this series on Netflix and I really enjoyed it! It does get a little repetitive at times, and I am sure they do exaggerate here and there, but it gives you a good timeline of important American historical events and some of the cause and effect surrounding them.
Great for the casual curious American!

✔ Highest voted answer

Reply · Send thanks · posted 158 days ago · 2 people agree

Desperate Crossing: The Untold Story of the Mayflower

From their self-imposed exile in Holland and perilous Atlantic crossing in the Mayflower to unimaginable hardships encountered in their new land, this is the definitive story of the Pilgrims and how they came to live--and ultimately prosper--in th... read more...

This is a really cool story about the pilgrims and conquering a world with only their hands and some minor tools to help them along. It's amazing what people have accomplished with so much less than what we have now. Ugh, every time I grumble I should consider what others have gone through before me. I have nothing to complain about. They had illnesses that killed their family and friends, huge bodies of water to cross that took weeks and months to what it takes us days, famine, etc. It's definitely worth seeing.

Reply · Send thanks · posted 158 days ago · 1 person agrees

Trail of Tears - A Native American Documentary Collection

Native Americans have experienced a history full of oppression and racism. Since the period when Native tribes were found on this continent at the time of its 'discovery', the British and American governments disregarded Native Americans as the ow... read more...

This is a very well done documentary about a very dark time in our nation's history. Man it's crazy what people have to go through. We are all so spoiled these days!

Reply · Send thanks · posted 158 days ago · 1 person agrees

The Civil War - A Film by Ken Burns

Hailed as a film masterpiece and landmark in historical storytelling, Ken Burns's epic documentary brings to life America's most destructive-- and defining--conflict. With digitally enhanced images and new stereo sound, here is the saga of celebra... read more...

A must-see for American History buffs. Great narration by academics and actors including Sam Waterston, Arthur Miller, and Shelby Foote.

Reply · Send thanks · posted 158 days ago

The History Channel Presents The Presidents

THE PRESIDENTS is an unprecedented eight-part survey of the personal lives and legacies of the remarkable men who have presided over the Oval Office. From George Washington to George W. Bush, THE PRESIDENTS gathers together vivid snapshots of all ... read more...

So much of our history was influenced directly by our presidents, so I feel like this a great place to start. History channel does a good job of presenting the material in an easy to digest, entertaining mannor. It makes learning pretty fun actually.
I will say this is probably not ideal for history buffs, as I'm sure there are some minor historical inaccuracies. Such is generally the case with cable shows, as they are more concerned with keeping the audience entertained than cramming knowledge down their throats. But it's definitely a good series and I think you wil enjoy it!