American History Revealed

1. New World

The premier episode of American History Revealed deals with the first attempt to create an English settlement in what one day would become the United States of America. Shipwreck and conflict with the local Native American tribes doomed the endeavor almost from the start. Eventually, nearly all the settlers opted to return to England, and the first effort to create an English colony in North America failed.

2. Lost Colony

The second attempt to establish a colony at Roanoke, how within months after the arrival of the settlers poor planning made it necessary to dispatch a relief ship to England for supplies. Although the supply ship was supposed to return the following spring, the Spanish Armada and England's war with Spain delayed its return for three years, by which time the Roanoke settlers had vanished without a trace.

3. Jamestown

This episode tells the story of the founding of Jamestown Colony - the conflict with the Native Americans, the struggle of the colonists to survive, and John Smith's adventure with the Indian princess Pocahontas (which may or may not have occurred) - all of which set the stage for disaster to come.

4. Disaster

After the departure of Cap. John Smith, the "starving time" begins. Surrounded by hostile tribesmen, the settlers are compelled eat their dogs, cats, and rats. At last, driven to extremity, they resort to cannibalism. By the end of winter, 1610, only 60 settlers (out of 214) remain alive.

5. Exiles

The members of the Scrooby congregation in England - the original "Pilgrims" - plan to flee the country because of religious persecution. They attempt to leave England illegally, but are foiled on two occasions. At last, they reach Holland, a place of refuge, where they will remain for 13 years, before sailing on the Mayflower for America.