Features | American Experience | Official Site

Into the Deep: America, Whaling & the World | Article

Dr. Tim Smith assembled a team of scientists and historians to determine the effects of 19th century American offshore whaling.

Into the Deep: America, Whaling & the World | Audio

Listen to the whales in these audio recordings of whale vocalizations.

Into the Deep: America, Whaling & the World | Article

When Melville died in 1891, his death was noted in only one local newspaper, with a brief description of the "long forgotten" author.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

An Amish man discusses the allure of life outside the Amish community — and the pull to come home.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

At 23, Anna was considered an old maid in her Amish community, but she struggles with the decision to leave.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Filmmaker Callie Wiser shares the story of Katie Troyer, who left the Amish in her forties.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Joe struggled to leave his Amish family of 15, returning six times before leaving for good.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Paul's parents became Amish when he was a boy. He was shunned as an adult.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Naomi left the Amish, put herself through college, and became a nurse.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Levi left his Amish family when he was 17, hoping to experience a different sort of life.

The Amish: Shunned | Clip

Jan became Amish as an adult, with her husband and children, but they were later shunned.

The Amish | Clip

This 1940s video shows a Pennsylvania Dutch family working without modern machinery.