Series·1988·1 season

An Ocean Apart

Documentary

When the 20th century opened, Britain dominated world affairs, and America stood on the sidelines. Now their positions are reversed. This is the story of how it happened.

Created by Adam Curtis, David Dimbleby

Play
Always find 7Shows7domains.fans
Continue the story

Episodes

Up next
Hats Off to Mr. WilsonE1 · 60 min

This episode tells how the Americans were dragged reluctantly into the First World War, of their journey across the Atlantic, their welcome in Liverpool, and their disillusion when the war was over. For President Woodrow Wilson, victory had turned sour, but America had started its journey towards world leadership.

Home in PasadenaE2 · 60 min

This episode examines the economic relations between England and the United States during the 1920s and discusses how free trade and mass production techniques after World War I changed British and U.S. manufacturing and created economic rivalry between the two countries.

Here Come the British, Bang! Bang!E3 · 60 min

This episode about the 1930s discusses how America is reluctant to enter World War II on Britain's side. Charles Lindbergh encourages U.S. neutrality in the war but Roosevelt decides to aid Britain.

Trust Me to the Bitter EndE4 · 60 min

America and Britain ally in World War II to defeat Nazi Germany. Clear U.S. dominance develops with the creation of the atom bomb.

If You Don't Like Our Peaches, Quit Shaking Our TreeE5 · 60 min

In a reversal of roles, Britain becomes isolationist and the United States a superpower. Britain's dependence on the US becomes clear after the Suez crisis.

Under the Eagle's WingE6 · 60 min

Britain cooperates with the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis but avoids involvement in Vietnam.

Turning Up the VolumeE7 · 60 min

During the 1980s, the United States and Britain form an alliance against the Soviet Union.

Featuring

Cast

1 credited

David Dimbleby
David Dimbleby

Keep watching

More like this

WWII in HD2009 · Series · ★ 7.6
American Experience1988 · Series · ★ 6.5
World War II with Tom Hanks2026 · Series · ★ 8.4
The War2007 · Series · ★ 8.2
The First World War2003 · Series · ★ 7.3
Oliver Stone's Untold History of the United States2012 · Series · ★ 7.7
Top Gear1978 · Series · ★ 8.0
Biography1987 · Series · ★ 6.7
World War II: From the Frontlines2023 · Series · ★ 8.0
How Do They Do It?2006 · Series · ★ 7.5
The Civil War1990 · Series · ★ 8.0
The Men Who Built America2012 · Series · ★ 8.1
The World Wars2014 · Series · ★ 7.5
Natural World1983 · Series · ★ 7.4
World War II in Colour2009 · Series · ★ 7.6
The Real History of Science Fiction2014 · Series · ★ 6.8
Doctor Who Confidential2005 · Series · ★ 8.0
Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War2024 · Series · ★ 8.0