Features | American Experience | Official Site

Last Days in Vietnam | Clip

We Jumped Out

When a South Vietnamese helicopter was too large to land on the U.S. Navy ship, the USS Kirk, the family on board had to make a leap of faith.

The Battle of Chosin | Image Gallery

The Chosin Few

Those who fought in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir call themselves the “Chosin Few." Explore their portraits and stories.

JFK | Article

Politics on Television

John F. Kennedy's skillful use of media ushered in a new era of politics.

Reagan | Article

The Iran-Contra Affair

Ronald Reagan's efforts to eradicate Communism spanned the globe, but the insurgent Contras' cause in Nicaragua was particularly dear to him.

JFK | Article

JFK: The Legacy

"...my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country." JFK

Murder of a President | Article

American Presidential Assassinations

In the country's early years, many people believed the young democratic republic was immune to political violence.

Collection

The 1930s

America’s response to the unprecedented economic crisis that threatened the nation during one of history’s most tumultuous decades.

Collection

Vietnam War

From the battlefields of Vietnam, to the decision making in Washington, to the protests on college campuses, explore the award-winning documentary films and related content in this collection.

Clinton | Image Gallery

Christmas at the White House

Christmas celebrations at the White House have evolved from intimate family gatherings to large-scale public events over time.

Hanukkah at the White House poster image canonical_images/feature/Clinton_Menorah.jpg XXX

Jimmy Carter | Image Gallery

In December 1979, Jimmy Carter made history as the first president to mark Hanukkah at the White House, lighting both the (electric) National Menorah in Lafayette Park and a smaller menorah in an outdoor ceremony. Scroll through a gallery of Hanukkah “firsts” at the White House.

The American Vice President | Clip

How important is a VP pick?

Historian Michael Kazin, political scientist Christopher Devine and historian Adriane Lentz-Smith explore how the choice of a vice presidential candidate can shape a presidential campaign and a presidency itself.

Citizen Hearst | Clip

POTUS vs. The Press

Political scientist Yu Ouyang and professor Jeremi Suri speak with Kelly McBride, Senior Vice President at The Poynter Institute for Media Studies, about how politicians and the press compete for public attention.