Watch Ultimate Guide to the Presidents Full Episodes, Video & More

Assume the Position (1789-1825)

Aired on Jan 15, 201344m

The United States of America was a bold invention of enormous risk. An 8-year war of independence, followed by intense political debate produced a government of, by and for the people. This democracy in a world ruled by Kings and Emperors was a new experiment with three branches--a Court, a Congress and an Executive--all sharing power; a precarious balancing act purposely left open to interpretation.

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Power to the People (1824-1849)

Aired on Jan 15, 201344m

The era of the Founding Fathers is coming to an end. Over the next 25 years, six presidents will reflect the country's sometimes uneasy transition from old traditions to an expansion of land, influence, and opportunity.

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A House Divided (1849-1865)

Aired on Jan 16, 201344m

By the mid-1800s, America is triple its original size thanks to bold but controversial decisions by presidents such as Jefferson, Jackson, and Polk. But the question of slavery must be addressed.

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Executive Retreat (1865-1901)

Aired on Jan 16, 201344m

The Civil War ends and America desperately needs leadership. The president who'd seen the nation through its most divisive conflict is dead, leaving no road map for peace.

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Call of Duty (1899-1921)

Aired on Jan 17, 201344m

Since the end of the Civil War, Congress and the deep pockets of Big Industry have dictated the course for the nation, but one president fights for the common man, just as a grisly international fight begins.

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Changing of the Guard (1920-1945)

Aired on Jan 17, 201344m

After the first global war ends, the economy begins to boom; America crashes into depression.

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Hail to the Chief (1945-1964)

Aired on Jan 18, 201344m

At the end of the devastating second global war, America emerges as a superpower; the Cold War.

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Mantle of Power (1965-2013)

Aired on Jan 18, 201344m

The presidency is burdened by the personal failings of the men who occupied the office and by a Congress determined to reassert its power. The Cold War ends but global terror networks rise to present a more complicated threat.