From its beginnings right through to the present day, the country's armed forces have shaped both American identity and the political decisions of its leaders.

The United States of America has been at war throughout most of its 250-year existence. From the War of Independence right through to contemporary armed conflicts, the nation's armed forces have not only shaped American identity but also influenced the political decisions of its leaders.

The documentary takes a deep dive into this complex history and analyzes the "hot" and "cold" wars that have shaped US history in order to draw important lessons for the future.

The film explores how successive generations of US Americans viewed and experienced each conflict. It also examines the enduring impact of these wars on American society and reveals how military engagement was utilized to hone the image and the role of the US on the global stage.

Around 30 high-profile experts, military personnel and politicians examine the military history of the United States, explaining its successes and failures, as well as its impact on the world and the everyday lives of Americans.

The film looks to the past to gain a keener understanding of how today's military decisions will affect tomorrow's world — as well as their far-reaching impact on democracy and society. And with US President Donald Trump now in office for a second term, it asks what role the army plays in Trump's world view.
 

Broadcasting Hours: 

DW English

Part 1 

WED 19.11.2025 – 01:15 UTC
WED 19.11.2025 – 04:15 UTC
THU 20.11.2025 – 09:15 UTC
THU 20.11.2025 – 16:15 UTC
THU 20.11.2025 – 21:15 UTC
FRI 21.11.2025 – 12:15 UTC
SAT 22.11.2025 – 02:15 UTC
SUN 23.11.2025 – 08:15 UTC

Part 2 

WED 26.11.2025 – 01:15 UTC
WED 26.11.2025 – 04:15 UTC
THU 27.11.2025 – 09:15 UTC
THU 27.11.2025 – 16:15 UTC
THU 27.11.2025 – 21:15 UTC
FRI 28.11.2025 – 12:15 UTC
SAT 29.11.2025 – 02:15 UTC
SUN 30.11.2025 – 08:15 UTC

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