American Ride

Watch American Ride

  • 2011
  • 10 Seasons

American Ride is a historical documentary series that explores the people, events, and ideas that shaped American history. Hosted by Stan Ellsworth, a history teacher and former drill sergeant, the show takes viewers on a journey through time and space, from the colonial era to the present day. Through captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and on-location reenactments, American Ride brings history to life in a way that is both educational and entertaining. Each episode focuses on a specific topic or theme, such as the American Revolution, Westward Expansion, the Civil War, or World War II, and delves deep into the people and events that defined those periods. One of the unique aspects of American Ride is the way in which it blends together different elements of history. Ellsworth is a skilled storyteller who is able to weave together historical facts, anecdotes, and personal stories in a way that makes the past seem immediate and relevant. Viewers not only learn about the major players and events of each era, but also gain insights into the everyday lives of ordinary people. In addition to its compelling narrative style, American Ride also features impressive production values. The show is shot on location in historic sites across the country, giving viewers a chance to see the places and artifacts that shaped history first-hand. From the battlefields of Gettysburg to the Old North Church in Boston, American Ride takes viewers on a journey through America's past, bringing to life the people and places that defined each era. As a history teacher himself, Ellsworth is passionate about his subject matter, and his enthusiasm for America's past is contagious. Through his engaging storytelling and dynamic personality, he inspires viewers to discover their own love of history, and to see the relevance of the lessons of the past to their own lives. One of the strengths of American Ride is its ability to portray history in a way that is accessible to a wide range of viewers. The show is suitable for families and individuals of all ages, making it an ideal choice for anyone interested in learning more about America's past. Its format also makes it a valuable resource for educators and homeschooling parents. Overall, American Ride is a fascinating and informative journey through America's past. Through its engaging storytelling, impressive production values, and passionate host, the show brings history to life in a way that is both entertaining and educational. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about America's past, American Ride is a show that is not to be missed.

American Ride
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Seasons
Times Of Trouble: Franklin Pierce & James Buchanan
13. Times Of Trouble: Franklin Pierce & James Buchanan
June 14, 2016
The United States was in need of a strong leader, but what we got were Presidents Franklin Pierce and James Buchanan. Despite their best efforts, the two men only managed to drive the nation further apart, destroy one party and see a new party rise from the ashes, and make a hero of a frontier lawyer from Illinois.
The Enforcer of Federalism: Ulysses S. Grant
10. The Enforcer of Federalism: Ulysses S. Grant
July 4, 2016
In 1868, America turned to the war hero and man of the people, Ulysses S. Grant. Grant was a man who would roll up his sleeves and get straight to work. Not big on politics, Grant would chart a course through the waters of reconstruction based on what he saw as the right thing to do.
Triumph and Tragedy: Andrew Johnson and Reconstruction
9. Triumph and Tragedy: Andrew Johnson and Reconstruction
June 27, 2016
Andrew Johnson was truly a victim of circumstance. A Democrat placed on the Republican ticket, Johnson became president after the death of our nation's most beloved chief executive. Lincoln's plans for reunification died with him, and Johnson's loyalty to Lincoln's vision almost destroyed the presidency.
A Time of Crisis: Abraham Lincoln and the Case for Union
8. A Time of Crisis: Abraham Lincoln and the Case for Union
June 20, 2016
When Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated, he became president of a fractured Union. America was poised for what would become the bloodiest chapter in its young history. The Civil War killed more Americans than all our other wars combined. It was only through Lincoln's strength, dedication, and faith that the Union survived.
Times Of Trouble: Franklin Pierce & James Buchanan
7. Times Of Trouble: Franklin Pierce & James Buchanan
June 13, 2016
The United States was in need of a strong leader, but what we got were Presidents Franklin Pierce and James Buchanan. Despite their best efforts, the two men only managed to drive the nation further apart, destroy one party and see a new party rise from the ashes, and make a hero of a frontier lawyer from Illinois.
A Time of Compromise: Zachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore
6. A Time of Compromise: Zachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore
June 6, 2016
The year 1850 was a time of compromise, but neither Zachary Taylor or Millard Fillmore did much to ease the tension. The question of expanding slavery into the territories brought about a constitutional crisis. Senator Henry Clay and Stephen Douglas would craft the "deal" that was meant to keep the Union together.
James K. Polk: A Man on a Mission
5. James K. Polk: A Man on a Mission
May 30, 2016
James K. Polk said what he meant and meant what he said, and because of him, the United States now spreads from sea to shining sea. Polk was a man of Manifest Destiny, for both himself and his country. He was a one-term wonder who got things done, but at what cost?
The Alamo
4. The Alamo
May 23, 2016
In 1824, Mexico revolted against General Antonio López de Santa Anna. Ten years later, Texas had decided that independence from Mexico was the only sure road to liberty. The birth of the Lone Star Republic would have a dramatic impact on the United States, and the siege of the Alamo would become an American legend.
Times of Turmoil: Van Buren, Harrison and Tyler
3. Times of Turmoil: Van Buren, Harrison and Tyler
May 16, 2016
Gone was the powerful personality of Andrew Jackson. Now we were faced with ineffectual leadership and unforeseen tragedy. Martin Van Buren would fire the furnace of sectional rivalry for more than 20 years. Tippecanoe and Tyler hardly fared much better.
Old Hickory and Jacksonian Democracy (1829-1837)
2. Old Hickory and Jacksonian Democracy (1829-1837)
May 9, 2016
Andrew Jackson was our nation's second military hero to become president. His rise to power ushered in the modern party system, ad the democratic political machine was created to ensure the election of Ol' Hickory. But the party system also created a culture of favoritism and patronage that affects our country even today.
JQA
1. JQA
May 2, 2016
The election of 1824 saw the beginning of a new political era in America. It was the end of the Federalists and the Democratic Republicans, and the end of the era of good feelings. The presidency of John Quincy Adams ushered in more than thirty years of political animosity that would finally divide our nation.
Description

American Ride is a historical documentary series that explores the people, events, and ideas that shaped American history. Hosted by Stan Ellsworth, a history teacher and former drill sergeant, the show takes viewers on a journey through time and space, from the colonial era to the present day.

Through captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and on-location reenactments, American Ride brings history to life in a way that is both educational and entertaining. Each episode focuses on a specific topic or theme, such as the American Revolution, Westward Expansion, the Civil War, or World War II, and delves deep into the people and events that defined those periods.

One of the unique aspects of American Ride is the way in which it blends together different elements of history. Ellsworth is a skilled storyteller who is able to weave together historical facts, anecdotes, and personal stories in a way that makes the past seem immediate and relevant. Viewers not only learn about the major players and events of each era, but also gain insights into the everyday lives of ordinary people.

In addition to its compelling narrative style, American Ride also features impressive production values. The show is shot on location in historic sites across the country, giving viewers a chance to see the places and artifacts that shaped history first-hand. From the battlefields of Gettysburg to the Old North Church in Boston, American Ride takes viewers on a journey through America's past, bringing to life the people and places that defined each era.

As a history teacher himself, Ellsworth is passionate about his subject matter, and his enthusiasm for America's past is contagious. Through his engaging storytelling and dynamic personality, he inspires viewers to discover their own love of history, and to see the relevance of the lessons of the past to their own lives.

One of the strengths of American Ride is its ability to portray history in a way that is accessible to a wide range of viewers. The show is suitable for families and individuals of all ages, making it an ideal choice for anyone interested in learning more about America's past. Its format also makes it a valuable resource for educators and homeschooling parents.

Overall, American Ride is a fascinating and informative journey through America's past. Through its engaging storytelling, impressive production values, and passionate host, the show brings history to life in a way that is both entertaining and educational. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about America's past, American Ride is a show that is not to be missed.

American Ride is a series that is currently running and has 10 seasons (124 episodes). The series first aired on October 3, 2011.

Where to Watch American Ride

American Ride is available for streaming on the BYUtv website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch American Ride on demand at and BYUtv.

  • Premiere Date
    October 3, 2011