Watch The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized

2021
1 Season

The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized is a docuseries that focuses on some of the most innovative and game-changing machines that have shaped America's economy and history. It is a six-part series that highlights the stories of those who pioneered these machines and the impact they had on society. Each episode focuses on a different machine and its significance, starting with the steam engine, which powered the industrial revolution, to the telephone, which revolutionized communication, and finally to the microchip, which transformed how we interact with technology. The series mixes interviews with historians and experts, alongside dramatic reenactments that transport viewers back to pivotal moments in history. One of the key strengths of the series is that it covers a wide range of industries and machines, which showcases the varied impact that technology has had on American society. For example, the series discusses the cotton gin and how it transformed the agricultural industry, instead of just focusing on more typical subjects such as cars or planes. The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized doesn't shy away from the controversies and challenges that these machines caused. For instance, the series acknowledges the labor issues surrounding the assembly line and how it impacted workers' safety and well-being. Similarly, it explores the ethical concerns raised by the telephone that revolutionized communication but also gave rise to long-distance scams and other criminal activities. Besides the technology itself, the series also shines a light on the people behind these innovations, from the famous names such as Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, to lesser-known pioneers who nevertheless made significant contributions to their industry. Interviews with experts are effectively intercut with vivid scenes of the inventorsâ experiments and setbacks, which provide fascinating insights into their journey. Despite its historical focus, The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized doesn't get bogged down in dry facts or dates. The reenactments recreate the excitement and intrigue that surrounded the groundbreaking machines, while the interviews lend context and analysis to the events in a way that is both informative and entertaining. Another aspect that sets the series apart is the "snack-sized" format. At around 20 minutes per episode, it's a convenient format for viewers who are short on time but still want to learn something new. By focusing on a single machine per episode, the series also allows viewers to dive deep into the subject without feeling overwhelmed by too much information. Overall, The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized is a well-produced, fast-paced documentary series that provides a fascinating look at the historical significance of machines that changed the course of American history. It's perfect for technology enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone looking to understand the role of innovation in shaping the modern world.

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Seasons

4. The Sky's the Limit

August 29, 2021

A humble hangar outside Seattle turns into a national sensation, creating the world's first jumbo jets, satellites, and military aircraft for the entire world, bringing the world into the "jet age." Learn about how the most popular jet of all time almost never got off the ground, plus the high-flying new line of planes named after... Muppets? Bring your seatbacks to their upright positions, because this one flies high.

3. Built Tough

August 29, 2021

A car company started by Henry Ford in a Michigan garage in 1903 changes the world of automobiles as we know it. This is the story of one of the most iconic brands in the history of the world, who once enlisted Hollywood royalty to help sell a car that flopped, and did you know someone once turned a Ford into a flying car? Buckle up... this is one you have to see to believe.

2. Wild Ones

August 22, 2021

When childhood friends Arthur Davidson and William Harley were looking for a way to make their bicycle faster, they created an American institution that would change the world forever. Watch the motorcycle go from practical vehicle to a symbol for outlaws, and beyond. The tale of how their motorcycles became a symbol of individuality and freedom is full of outlaws, high risks, and even higher rewards. Hold on tight... this is truly a wild ride.

1. Car Wars

August 22, 2021

What began as the brainchild of a carriage company magnate eventually brings the world sports cars, giant SUVs, and futuristic hybrid vehicles. This is the story of one of the biggest names in the auto industry, and part of the biggest automotive corporation in the world. But the road to success is full of twists, turns, and scandals.

Description

Each episode focuses on a different machine and its significance, starting with the steam engine, which powered the industrial revolution, to the telephone, which revolutionized communication, and finally to the microchip, which transformed how we interact with technology. The series mixes interviews with historians and experts, alongside dramatic reenactments that transport viewers back to pivotal moments in history.

One of the key strengths of the series is that it covers a wide range of industries and machines, which showcases the varied impact that technology has had on American society. For example, the series discusses the cotton gin and how it transformed the agricultural industry, instead of just focusing on more typical subjects such as cars or planes.

The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized doesn't shy away from the controversies and challenges that these machines caused. For instance, the series acknowledges the labor issues surrounding the assembly line and how it impacted workers' safety and well-being. Similarly, it explores the ethical concerns raised by the telephone that revolutionized communication but also gave rise to long-distance scams and other criminal activities.

Besides the technology itself, the series also shines a light on the people behind these innovations, from the famous names such as Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, to lesser-known pioneers who nevertheless made significant contributions to their industry. Interviews with experts are effectively intercut with vivid scenes of the inventorsâ experiments and setbacks, which provide fascinating insights into their journey.

Despite its historical focus, The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized doesn't get bogged down in dry facts or dates. The reenactments recreate the excitement and intrigue that surrounded the groundbreaking machines, while the interviews lend context and analysis to the events in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

Another aspect that sets the series apart is the "snack-sized" format. At around 20 minutes per episode, it's a convenient format for viewers who are short on time but still want to learn something new. By focusing on a single machine per episode, the series also allows viewers to dive deep into the subject without feeling overwhelmed by too much information.

Overall, The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized is a well-produced, fast-paced documentary series that provides a fascinating look at the historical significance of machines that changed the course of American history. It's perfect for technology enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone looking to understand the role of innovation in shaping the modern world.

The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on August 22, 2021.

Where to Watch The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized

The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized is available for streaming on the History website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Machines That Built America: Snack Sized on demand at Apple TV.