Department of History

The War That Made America is the four-hour PBS special that vividly brings to life a vastly important but often overlooked period of American history-The French and Indian War (1754-1763). This dramatic documentary, with full-scale battles, elaborate sets and a large cast, tells the fascinating story of three world powers-England, France and an alliance of Native American nations whose struggles planted the seeds for the American Revolution. A central figure is George Washington, then a brash and ambitious young officer in his twenties hoping to make his reputation in the British military, whose blunders actually trigger the war. The series also highlights the critical and sophisticated role of Native Americans in the conflict between the English and the French. Narrated and hosted by Graham Greene, a full-blooded Oneida Indian actor (Academy-Award nominee for Dances with Wolves) whose ancestors fought in this war.