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Narrator: This is
the story of america,
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00:00:03,787 --> 00:00:06,955
Seen in color
for the first time.
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00:00:06,966 --> 00:00:09,124
At the turn of the 20th century,
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00:00:09,135 --> 00:00:12,553
29 million americans
are working.
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00:00:12,629 --> 00:00:16,548
40 percent of them are farmers.
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00:00:16,559 --> 00:00:19,476
But factories are expanding
as never before.
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00:00:22,639 --> 00:00:27,735
As labor and management clash,
politicians make promises.
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00:00:27,811 --> 00:00:30,145
Calvin coolidge:
I want the people of america
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00:00:30,156 --> 00:00:33,231
To be able to work less
for the government
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00:00:33,242 --> 00:00:35,325
And more for themselves.
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00:00:35,402 --> 00:00:36,568
[cheering]
12
00:00:36,579 --> 00:00:39,913
Narrator: Unions rise,
and some fall.
13
00:00:42,585 --> 00:00:45,669
Technology creates new jobs
14
00:00:45,746 --> 00:00:50,174
And a new workplace--
the modern office.
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00:00:50,250 --> 00:00:51,925
By the 1950s,
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00:00:52,002 --> 00:00:55,170
Americans have the world's
highest standard of living.
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00:00:55,181 --> 00:00:59,266
This is the story of the workers
who made america,
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00:00:59,343 --> 00:01:01,760
As you've never
seen them before.
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00:01:01,771 --> 00:01:14,281
♪
20
00:01:14,358 --> 00:01:16,108
John kennedy: I want us
to recapture that...
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00:01:16,118 --> 00:01:25,042
♪
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00:01:25,119 --> 00:01:29,213
♪
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00:01:29,289 --> 00:01:31,799
At the turn
of the 20th century,
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This is what
a modern factory looked like.
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00:01:34,962 --> 00:01:39,056
♪
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00:01:39,133 --> 00:01:43,393
This incredibly rare moving
footage was taken in 1904.
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00:01:43,470 --> 00:01:49,307
♪
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00:01:49,318 --> 00:01:51,560
Industrialist
george westinghouse
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00:01:51,570 --> 00:01:53,895
Had this
two-million-square-foot plant
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Built to his specifications.
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00:01:57,660 --> 00:01:59,067
The product?
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00:01:59,078 --> 00:02:01,903
Huge generators
to produce the electricity
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00:02:01,914 --> 00:02:05,499
That will make america
an industrial superpower.
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00:02:05,576 --> 00:02:10,921
♪
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00:02:10,998 --> 00:02:14,916
A camera mounted on
a 50-ton crane tracks activity
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00:02:14,927 --> 00:02:18,262
Along a 600-yard-long
machine shop floor.
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00:02:21,091 --> 00:02:24,009
10,000 people work
in the plant...
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00:02:24,019 --> 00:02:28,856
♪
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00:02:28,932 --> 00:02:31,483
...Including 650 women.
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00:02:34,021 --> 00:02:35,946
They spend
their nine-hour shift
41
00:02:36,023 --> 00:02:40,025
Winding wire onto coils
for the giant dynamos.
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00:02:40,035 --> 00:02:45,873
♪
43
00:02:45,949 --> 00:02:49,877
A crane helps wrangle the huge
components for final assembly.
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00:02:49,953 --> 00:02:54,789
♪
45
00:02:54,800 --> 00:02:56,875
They're working
to fulfill a contract
46
00:02:56,886 --> 00:03:00,304
For the world's biggest
engineering project--
47
00:03:00,380 --> 00:03:05,017
Using the power of niagara falls
to make electricity.
48
00:03:07,554 --> 00:03:10,230
Electricity
from westinghouse's turbines
49
00:03:10,307 --> 00:03:13,817
Flows by wire
20 miles from the falls
50
00:03:13,894 --> 00:03:15,736
To buffalo, new york...
51
00:03:18,657 --> 00:03:20,073
...Illuminating the city
52
00:03:20,150 --> 00:03:23,902
For its quarter of a million
inhabitants.
53
00:03:23,913 --> 00:03:25,996
It's the first time anyone
54
00:03:26,073 --> 00:03:31,493
Has transmitted
this much electricity so far.
55
00:03:31,503 --> 00:03:34,755
To succeed, innovative firms
like westinghouse
56
00:03:34,831 --> 00:03:37,582
Depend on their employees.
57
00:03:37,593 --> 00:03:42,254
So do smaller operations.
58
00:03:42,264 --> 00:03:47,100
In 1915, at kennedy gold mine
in jackson, california,
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00:03:47,177 --> 00:03:49,436
Human labor is cheap.
60
00:03:51,440 --> 00:03:55,692
Miners spend ten-hour shifts
hauling ore by hand.
61
00:03:57,604 --> 00:04:00,781
There's no such thing
as a weekend,
62
00:04:00,857 --> 00:04:04,201
Or health insurance.
63
00:04:04,278 --> 00:04:07,529
Coal miners in pennsylvania
get paid by the ton,
64
00:04:07,539 --> 00:04:11,866
A routine that encourages
risk-taking.
65
00:04:11,877 --> 00:04:16,621
In 1913,
35,000 americans nationwide
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00:04:16,632 --> 00:04:19,958
Die in workplace accidents.
67
00:04:19,969 --> 00:04:25,305
That's 700 percent
more than today.
68
00:04:25,382 --> 00:04:28,225
Out of self-interest,
workers organize.
69
00:04:29,979 --> 00:04:32,729
Former cigar maker
samuel gompers
70
00:04:32,806 --> 00:04:35,816
Forms the american
federation of labor.
71
00:04:35,892 --> 00:04:40,145
The afl fights for higher wages
and safer workplaces,
72
00:04:40,155 --> 00:04:43,148
But in the early years,
enrollment is slim.
73
00:04:43,158 --> 00:04:46,318
Less than one percent
of tradesmen join.
74
00:04:46,328 --> 00:04:48,620
Management holds the power.
75
00:04:52,409 --> 00:04:56,545
The imbalance is especially bad
in new york's clothing industry.
76
00:04:59,341 --> 00:05:03,760
More than 200 factories cram
the 8-block garment district,
77
00:05:03,837 --> 00:05:07,422
Where, on March 25, 1911,
78
00:05:07,433 --> 00:05:11,518
New yorkers witness the worst
factory disaster to date.
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00:05:13,847 --> 00:05:16,857
The triangle waist company
rents three floors
80
00:05:16,933 --> 00:05:19,693
In the asch building
in greenwich village.
81
00:05:19,770 --> 00:05:22,103
That Saturday, a workday,
82
00:05:22,114 --> 00:05:25,106
A blaze starts
on the eighth floor.
83
00:05:25,117 --> 00:05:27,525
Firefighters raise ladders,
84
00:05:27,536 --> 00:05:32,197
But the flames are too fierce
and too high up.
85
00:05:32,207 --> 00:05:36,626
The ywca re-enacts the events
in a film shortly afterwards.
86
00:05:38,455 --> 00:05:40,205
Managers have locked exit doors
87
00:05:40,215 --> 00:05:43,375
To discourage theft
and goofing off.
88
00:05:43,385 --> 00:05:47,212
The one fire escape
is too narrow.
89
00:05:47,222 --> 00:05:49,389
As horrified onlookers watch,
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00:05:49,466 --> 00:05:52,017
Desperate workers
leap from the building.
91
00:05:55,064 --> 00:05:57,806
In 18 terrifying minutes,
92
00:05:57,816 --> 00:06:03,561
146 workers,
mostly immigrant women, die.
93
00:06:03,572 --> 00:06:07,199
The youngest, kate leone,
is 14 years old.
94
00:06:10,237 --> 00:06:13,905
A court acquits factory owners
max blanck and isaac harris
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00:06:13,916 --> 00:06:15,657
Of any wrongdoing,
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00:06:15,667 --> 00:06:17,909
Though they are ordered
to pay compensation
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00:06:17,920 --> 00:06:22,664
To grieving families,
$75 per victim.
98
00:06:22,674 --> 00:06:27,010
Insurers reimburse blanck
and harris $60,000.
99
00:06:27,087 --> 00:06:30,672
They immediately
go back into business.
100
00:06:30,682 --> 00:06:32,674
The triangle waist company
factory fire
101
00:06:32,684 --> 00:06:34,518
Prompts new laws,
102
00:06:34,594 --> 00:06:38,855
Requiring sprinkler systems
and multiple fire escapes.
103
00:06:41,184 --> 00:06:43,443
[machines clattering]
104
00:06:43,520 --> 00:06:47,614
Nationwide, automation
changes factory work.
105
00:06:50,369 --> 00:06:52,694
At this new york
cloth cutting shop,
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00:06:52,704 --> 00:06:56,281
One employee runs a row
of embroidery machines
107
00:06:56,291 --> 00:06:58,792
That replaces
six skilled workers
108
00:06:58,869 --> 00:07:02,537
Stitching military uniforms.
109
00:07:02,548 --> 00:07:07,134
Mechanization threatens
many traditional jobs.
110
00:07:07,210 --> 00:07:10,962
At this sawmill,
conveyors boost efficiency.
111
00:07:10,973 --> 00:07:16,560
Manual work becomes
monotonous and dull.
112
00:07:16,636 --> 00:07:20,480
In 1915, workplace scientist
frank gilbreth
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00:07:20,557 --> 00:07:23,567
And his industrial psychologist
wife lillian
114
00:07:23,643 --> 00:07:27,896
Examine the way
modern americans work.
115
00:07:27,906 --> 00:07:32,233
Their tools are a 35-millimeter
motion picture camera
116
00:07:32,244 --> 00:07:33,651
And a clock.
117
00:07:33,662 --> 00:07:36,654
They film workers,
recording every movement
118
00:07:36,665 --> 00:07:39,824
And analyzing
individual efficiency--
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00:07:39,835 --> 00:07:43,003
The brick mason,
120
00:07:43,079 --> 00:07:45,413
The typist,
121
00:07:45,424 --> 00:07:46,840
The file clerk.
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00:07:49,920 --> 00:07:52,679
Pears soap in new jersey
hires the duo
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00:07:52,756 --> 00:07:56,016
To find ways
to increase productivity.
124
00:07:56,092 --> 00:07:58,602
They film miss gertrood,
a packer,
125
00:07:58,678 --> 00:08:01,646
Calculating how long
each gesture takes her.
126
00:08:05,027 --> 00:08:07,944
They suggest two simple changes.
127
00:08:08,021 --> 00:08:09,362
Let her sit
128
00:08:09,439 --> 00:08:12,607
And stack the empty boxes
beside her.
129
00:08:12,618 --> 00:08:16,912
These adjustments raise
productivity by 36 percent.
130
00:08:19,199 --> 00:08:22,792
Frank and lillian
are also productive at home.
131
00:08:22,869 --> 00:08:24,619
They have nine children.
132
00:08:24,630 --> 00:08:26,963
Their time and motion studies
strike a balance
133
00:08:27,040 --> 00:08:29,874
Between bosses and workers.
134
00:08:29,885 --> 00:08:33,345
Profits rise,
and employees are happier.
135
00:08:35,057 --> 00:08:39,217
But even bigger changes
are just around the corner.
136
00:08:39,228 --> 00:08:44,138
[gunfire]
137
00:08:44,149 --> 00:08:47,058
On April 6, 1917,
138
00:08:47,069 --> 00:08:50,645
The united states
enters world war I.
139
00:08:50,656 --> 00:08:53,323
Going to war accelerates
mass production
140
00:08:53,400 --> 00:08:57,077
And creates jobs.
141
00:08:57,153 --> 00:08:58,745
On long island, new york,
142
00:08:58,822 --> 00:09:01,239
At the gas defense
service plant,
143
00:09:01,250 --> 00:09:07,078
Workers making gas masks
cut rubberized fabric.
144
00:09:07,089 --> 00:09:10,006
With two million men
serving overseas,
145
00:09:10,083 --> 00:09:14,010
A million women are employed
for the first time
146
00:09:14,087 --> 00:09:18,473
But are paid 50 percent less
for the same tasks.
147
00:09:22,429 --> 00:09:28,441
Each week, the plant produces
40,000 gas masks.
148
00:09:28,518 --> 00:09:30,777
[horn blows]
149
00:09:32,439 --> 00:09:34,948
The war ends in 18 months.
150
00:09:37,694 --> 00:09:40,287
Returning servicemen
want their jobs back.
151
00:09:42,282 --> 00:09:46,126
But peacetime
brings a recession.
152
00:09:46,202 --> 00:09:52,707
And between 1916 and 1919,
the cost of living doubles.
153
00:09:52,718 --> 00:09:56,461
The recession rocks
industrial cities like chicago,
154
00:09:56,471 --> 00:09:58,138
Where the tribune newspaper
155
00:09:58,214 --> 00:10:01,558
Sponsors
an "eat more fish" campaign.
156
00:10:01,635 --> 00:10:05,219
Promoting it as an affordable
alternative to red meat,
157
00:10:05,230 --> 00:10:09,891
They're selling subsidized
haddock at 11 cents a pound.
158
00:10:09,901 --> 00:10:14,404
America has too many workers
and not enough work.
159
00:10:16,650 --> 00:10:21,411
September 1919,
gary, indiana.
160
00:10:21,488 --> 00:10:25,081
Thousands of striking
steelworkers fill the streets.
161
00:10:25,158 --> 00:10:29,327
They're protesting
low wages and long hours.
162
00:10:29,338 --> 00:10:33,247
During the war, union membership
rose by 50 percent.
163
00:10:33,258 --> 00:10:37,344
Now the steelworker unions
flex their muscles.
164
00:10:37,420 --> 00:10:42,182
Across the nation,
365,000 steelworkers strike.
165
00:10:42,258 --> 00:10:46,010
Half the steel industry
in america shuts down.
166
00:10:46,021 --> 00:10:47,512
On November 1st,
167
00:10:47,522 --> 00:10:50,440
United mine workers president
john l. Lewis
168
00:10:50,517 --> 00:10:54,268
Leads his 400,000 members
off the job.
169
00:10:54,279 --> 00:10:56,529
They have the same grievances.
170
00:10:59,951 --> 00:11:01,868
In wilkes-barre, pennsylvania,
171
00:11:01,945 --> 00:11:07,281
Striking coal miners are urged
to stand firm and stay civil.
172
00:11:07,292 --> 00:11:13,037
In all, a record 20 percent of
the american workforce strikes.
173
00:11:13,048 --> 00:11:17,217
The steel industry alone
loses $17 million--
174
00:11:17,293 --> 00:11:20,887
Today, $260 million.
175
00:11:24,559 --> 00:11:28,803
In the end, though,
strikers suffer more.
176
00:11:28,814 --> 00:11:31,731
Opponents call them communists,
177
00:11:31,808 --> 00:11:35,143
And public opinion
turns against them.
178
00:11:35,153 --> 00:11:39,147
After six weeks,
they return to work.
179
00:11:39,157 --> 00:11:41,825
Conditions stay the same.
180
00:11:41,901 --> 00:11:46,154
Unions have lost, for now.
181
00:11:46,164 --> 00:11:51,167
♪
182
00:11:51,244 --> 00:11:54,254
Out west, another sector
is growing.
183
00:11:54,330 --> 00:11:56,756
On tannahill ranch
in new mexico,
184
00:11:56,833 --> 00:12:02,762
Cowboys drive 3,000 steers
25 miles a day.
185
00:12:02,839 --> 00:12:06,558
In 1920, 11 million americans
work the land.
186
00:12:08,770 --> 00:12:12,180
This old-fashioned job
has scarcely changed at all.
187
00:12:12,190 --> 00:12:16,100
[mooing]
188
00:12:16,111 --> 00:12:19,696
Wranglers supplement
their $37 monthly pay
189
00:12:19,773 --> 00:12:24,859
By breaking wild horses
for $12 a head.
190
00:12:24,870 --> 00:12:27,361
They test their riding
and roping skills
191
00:12:27,372 --> 00:12:30,415
Competing for prize money
at rodeos.
192
00:12:33,787 --> 00:12:36,621
But change is ahead.
193
00:12:36,631 --> 00:12:39,716
In the 1920s,
american workers will benefit
194
00:12:39,793 --> 00:12:43,219
From unprecedented growth
and prosperity.
195
00:12:45,557 --> 00:12:48,558
♪
196
00:12:48,635 --> 00:12:52,970
1919, northampton,
massachusetts.
197
00:12:52,981 --> 00:12:57,141
Governor calvin coolidge
is a pro-business republican.
198
00:12:57,152 --> 00:13:01,479
Posing for the camera with wife
grace and their sons at home,
199
00:13:01,490 --> 00:13:04,908
Coolidge is on a mission
to promote american business.
200
00:13:08,571 --> 00:13:11,998
In 1923,
when warren g. Harding dies,
201
00:13:12,075 --> 00:13:15,418
Coolidge becomes president.
202
00:13:15,495 --> 00:13:19,088
He meets the press
on the white house lawn.
203
00:13:19,165 --> 00:13:24,093
For the first time, an american
leader is filmed with sound.
204
00:13:24,170 --> 00:13:27,755
Coolidge: I want to cut down
public expense.
205
00:13:27,766 --> 00:13:30,350
I want the people of america
206
00:13:30,426 --> 00:13:33,427
To be able to work less
for the government
207
00:13:33,438 --> 00:13:35,680
And more for themselves.
208
00:13:35,690 --> 00:13:39,934
I want them to have the rewards
of their own industry.
209
00:13:39,945 --> 00:13:42,612
This is the chief meaning
of freedom.
210
00:13:42,689 --> 00:13:44,438
[cheering]
211
00:13:44,449 --> 00:13:47,024
Narrator:
Coolidge follows through.
212
00:13:47,035 --> 00:13:48,618
With congressional backing,
213
00:13:48,695 --> 00:13:51,371
He increases taxes
on imported goods
214
00:13:51,447 --> 00:13:55,792
To give american
businesses an edge.
215
00:13:55,869 --> 00:13:59,462
Entrepreneur bill cheney
leaps to the challenge.
216
00:13:59,539 --> 00:14:01,789
Aired here for the first time,
217
00:14:01,800 --> 00:14:04,968
This footage shows
cheney's company in action,
218
00:14:05,044 --> 00:14:08,212
Fulfilling a contract
to bridge the columbia river
219
00:14:08,223 --> 00:14:12,058
At rainier, oregon.
220
00:14:12,135 --> 00:14:15,970
His welders are helping to erect
the longview bridge,
221
00:14:15,981 --> 00:14:18,898
America's longest
cantilever span.
222
00:14:21,311 --> 00:14:24,654
The country has entered
a golden age of road building,
223
00:14:24,731 --> 00:14:28,816
And some of that gold
is going to cheney.
224
00:14:28,827 --> 00:14:33,204
A string of profitable projects
lets him retire early.
225
00:14:36,585 --> 00:14:39,410
Philadelphia hosiery maker
ellwood hoffmann
226
00:14:39,421 --> 00:14:41,671
Is riding the boom.
227
00:14:41,748 --> 00:14:43,339
At his lucille knitting factory,
228
00:14:43,416 --> 00:14:46,759
Opened in 1920
and named after his wife,
229
00:14:46,836 --> 00:14:49,762
Workers check the quality
on silk stockings.
230
00:14:53,760 --> 00:14:55,518
They're especially popular,
231
00:14:55,595 --> 00:14:58,354
Now that women
have ditched long skirts.
232
00:15:01,776 --> 00:15:05,686
It's not a requirement to have
shapely legs to work here,
233
00:15:05,697 --> 00:15:07,322
But it certainly helps.
234
00:15:10,118 --> 00:15:12,360
And as lucille knitting
prospers,
235
00:15:12,370 --> 00:15:16,530
Profits let hoffmann's
family live in style.
236
00:15:16,541 --> 00:15:17,957
Home movie footage shows them
237
00:15:18,034 --> 00:15:20,919
Fishing along barnegat bay,
new jersey...
238
00:15:23,381 --> 00:15:26,049
...And enjoying a day
at the seashore.
239
00:15:26,125 --> 00:15:29,552
♪
240
00:15:31,890 --> 00:15:35,299
Life is improving
for some workers, too.
241
00:15:35,310 --> 00:15:37,393
As paperwork multiplies,
242
00:15:37,470 --> 00:15:40,480
Typewriters become
standard office equipment,
243
00:15:40,556 --> 00:15:43,816
Creating a new job--the typist.
244
00:15:45,895 --> 00:15:47,904
Cheaper to hire than men,
245
00:15:47,981 --> 00:15:51,315
A million women
fill typing pool vacancies.
246
00:15:51,326 --> 00:15:54,243
Competition for jobs is intense.
247
00:15:54,320 --> 00:15:57,622
One way to land work is to win
a typing contest.
248
00:16:01,336 --> 00:16:06,381
Champion birdie reeve types
200 words a minute, accurately.
249
00:16:08,084 --> 00:16:12,136
At 15, she can type faster
than anyone can dictate.
250
00:16:15,517 --> 00:16:19,677
In 1927, there's a huge upset.
251
00:16:19,688 --> 00:16:24,765
A man, george hossfield,
wins the world title,
252
00:16:24,776 --> 00:16:28,111
Typing 157 words a minute.
253
00:16:28,187 --> 00:16:30,196
♪
254
00:16:30,273 --> 00:16:31,823
[whistle blows]
255
00:16:34,360 --> 00:16:37,954
America's economy soars
in the twenties.
256
00:16:38,031 --> 00:16:40,698
Wages rise 20 percent.
257
00:16:40,709 --> 00:16:43,117
Workers become consumers,
258
00:16:43,128 --> 00:16:45,953
Able to afford
labor-saving inventions...
259
00:16:45,964 --> 00:16:51,217
♪
260
00:16:51,294 --> 00:16:54,045
...Like the westinghouse
turnover toaster.
261
00:16:54,055 --> 00:16:57,548
This beauty arrives three years
ahead of sliced bread.
262
00:16:57,559 --> 00:17:02,303
♪
263
00:17:02,313 --> 00:17:05,556
Not every innovation succeeds.
264
00:17:05,567 --> 00:17:08,234
Take this early mobile phone,
265
00:17:08,311 --> 00:17:10,695
Using an umbrella
as its antenna.
266
00:17:13,983 --> 00:17:17,994
A driverless vehicle
follows remote control commands,
267
00:17:18,071 --> 00:17:20,913
A novelty and nothing more.
268
00:17:20,990 --> 00:17:25,001
♪
269
00:17:25,078 --> 00:17:26,586
[horn honks]
270
00:17:26,662 --> 00:17:29,756
But actual autos are everywhere.
271
00:17:29,832 --> 00:17:33,092
Over half american families
own cars.
272
00:17:33,169 --> 00:17:35,094
As they take over the streets,
273
00:17:35,171 --> 00:17:39,599
They are the most visible part
of a wave of new innovations,
274
00:17:39,675 --> 00:17:42,518
But some bring hidden dangers.
275
00:17:45,598 --> 00:17:49,442
This is the chrysotile mine
in arizona.
276
00:17:49,519 --> 00:17:51,268
Buried deep in this mountain
277
00:17:51,279 --> 00:17:53,437
Are rocks containing
rich deposits
278
00:17:53,448 --> 00:17:55,606
Of a precious natural mineral.
279
00:17:55,617 --> 00:17:58,034
It forms in stringy fibers.
280
00:18:00,446 --> 00:18:03,447
Trucks haul tons of it
across the country
281
00:18:03,458 --> 00:18:07,034
To a factory
in manville, new jersey,
282
00:18:07,045 --> 00:18:08,628
Where the long
needle-like fibers
283
00:18:08,704 --> 00:18:10,797
Are stripped from the rock.
284
00:18:10,873 --> 00:18:14,050
The natural fiber
is an industrial miracle.
285
00:18:14,127 --> 00:18:17,720
It's tough, flexible,
and fire-resistant.
286
00:18:17,797 --> 00:18:20,389
The auto industry
is its biggest consumer,
287
00:18:20,466 --> 00:18:23,976
Using the wonder material
to make brake pads.
288
00:18:24,053 --> 00:18:28,305
It's called asbestos.
289
00:18:28,316 --> 00:18:32,985
In 1929, johns manville company
reports record profits
290
00:18:33,062 --> 00:18:36,397
Of $6.6 million selling it.
291
00:18:36,407 --> 00:18:38,074
Most workers have no idea
292
00:18:38,151 --> 00:18:40,576
The dust they're breathing
is deadly.
293
00:18:40,653 --> 00:18:44,497
And they have
no protection from it.
294
00:18:44,574 --> 00:18:46,323
But the same year,
295
00:18:46,334 --> 00:18:50,503
11 johns manville workers win
settlements of $30,000 apiece
296
00:18:50,580 --> 00:18:54,757
On claims that breathing
asbestos damaged their lungs.
297
00:18:54,834 --> 00:18:57,009
It will take another 26 years
298
00:18:57,086 --> 00:18:59,846
Before its link to cancer
is confirmed,
299
00:18:59,922 --> 00:19:02,840
And in the 1970s,
court cases will establish
300
00:19:02,851 --> 00:19:07,261
That, for decades, the industry
concealed its product's risks
301
00:19:07,272 --> 00:19:10,022
From workers and consumers.
302
00:19:14,362 --> 00:19:17,354
Another new technology
gets america talking
303
00:19:17,365 --> 00:19:20,032
And creates brand-new jobs.
304
00:19:23,371 --> 00:19:26,947
In the summer of 1925,
near toledo, ohio,
305
00:19:26,958 --> 00:19:31,702
The american telephone and
telegraph company makes history.
306
00:19:31,713 --> 00:19:36,290
At&t board member a.F. Stevenson
makes the final splice
307
00:19:36,301 --> 00:19:42,972
In an 861-mile phone cable
linking new york and chicago.
308
00:19:43,049 --> 00:19:47,435
Now 139 calls
can be made at a time.
309
00:19:50,732 --> 00:19:53,399
With phones in a third
of american homes,
310
00:19:53,476 --> 00:19:56,402
The call goes out
for more operators.
311
00:19:59,815 --> 00:20:03,409
In 1926,
this at&t recruiting film
312
00:20:03,486 --> 00:20:06,913
Encourages women to sign up.
313
00:20:06,989 --> 00:20:08,331
On the practice switchboards,
314
00:20:08,407 --> 00:20:10,491
They learn how to connect
customer calls
315
00:20:10,501 --> 00:20:14,003
Via cables between exchanges.
316
00:20:14,080 --> 00:20:17,340
200,000 women are working
as operators.
317
00:20:20,345 --> 00:20:24,347
The tele skater appears
as switchboards increase in size
318
00:20:24,423 --> 00:20:28,309
To cope with the 64 million
calls made daily.
319
00:20:30,930 --> 00:20:32,846
Besides connecting individuals,
320
00:20:32,857 --> 00:20:35,608
The telephone
becomes a business tool.
321
00:20:35,685 --> 00:20:41,605
♪
322
00:20:41,616 --> 00:20:44,533
But some deals
require face time,
323
00:20:44,610 --> 00:20:47,620
And that means travel.
324
00:20:47,697 --> 00:20:51,791
In 1926,
a new business tool arrives.
325
00:20:51,867 --> 00:20:55,878
Stout air services schedules the
first regular passenger flights
326
00:20:55,955 --> 00:20:57,838
In the united states.
327
00:21:00,960 --> 00:21:02,543
Within two years,
328
00:21:02,553 --> 00:21:06,222
Business passengers
are the line's main customers.
329
00:21:06,299 --> 00:21:09,383
A round-trip flight
between detroit and cleveland
330
00:21:09,394 --> 00:21:11,894
Costs $35,
331
00:21:11,971 --> 00:21:15,222
More than the average worker
makes in a week.
332
00:21:15,233 --> 00:21:19,560
By 1930, united airlines
has acquired stout.
333
00:21:19,570 --> 00:21:24,815
Nationwide, more than 650
airports are up and running
334
00:21:24,826 --> 00:21:30,079
And the number of airplane
passengers exceeds 173,000
335
00:21:30,156 --> 00:21:32,081
By the end of the decade.
336
00:21:35,244 --> 00:21:37,503
As american business soars,
337
00:21:37,580 --> 00:21:41,674
Some everyday workers
do get to share in the success.
338
00:21:44,837 --> 00:21:49,765
♪
339
00:21:49,842 --> 00:21:52,351
Shown here for the first time,
340
00:21:52,428 --> 00:21:57,431
This footage shows a day out
for the girls heinz 57 club,
341
00:21:57,442 --> 00:22:01,193
A social club organized
for female employees.
342
00:22:02,938 --> 00:22:06,782
These factory girls are arriving
at eden hall farm
343
00:22:06,859 --> 00:22:11,779
Outside pittsburgh for a day of
hiking, riding, and picnicking.
344
00:22:11,789 --> 00:22:15,866
♪
345
00:22:15,877 --> 00:22:17,376
As his father did,
346
00:22:17,453 --> 00:22:20,212
Clifford heinz
believes company benefits
347
00:22:20,289 --> 00:22:25,876
Will keep his employees happy
and non-unionized.
348
00:22:25,887 --> 00:22:29,889
6,500 heinz workers
have free medical care
349
00:22:29,965 --> 00:22:31,974
And financial assistance.
350
00:22:36,472 --> 00:22:38,814
Farther east
in the keystone state,
351
00:22:38,891 --> 00:22:41,734
Chocolate magnate
milton s. Hershey
352
00:22:41,811 --> 00:22:46,155
Takes worker benefits
to a new level.
353
00:22:46,232 --> 00:22:48,908
Hershey park
is a brand-new company town
354
00:22:48,984 --> 00:22:53,746
Built specifically
for workers and their families,
355
00:22:53,823 --> 00:22:57,166
Providing his workforce with
everything its people need--
356
00:22:57,243 --> 00:23:02,004
Schools, churches, parks,
357
00:23:02,081 --> 00:23:06,008
An orphanage and hospital,
358
00:23:06,085 --> 00:23:10,337
A sports arena,
359
00:23:10,348 --> 00:23:14,258
A private country club,
360
00:23:14,268 --> 00:23:18,429
And, for the kids, a zoo.
361
00:23:18,439 --> 00:23:21,190
It later becomes
a famous amusement park.
362
00:23:23,352 --> 00:23:25,528
Hershey holds
that providing his workforce
363
00:23:25,604 --> 00:23:29,865
With a clean, safe place
to live and raise families
364
00:23:29,942 --> 00:23:34,578
Will make for happier workers
and a better bottom line.
365
00:23:36,949 --> 00:23:41,618
In the 1920s, these workers
are living the american dream,
366
00:23:41,629 --> 00:23:43,787
But as the economy tanks,
367
00:23:43,798 --> 00:23:46,841
Millions are
about to be made unemployed.
368
00:23:51,055 --> 00:23:57,217
1933. America is nearly four
years into the great depression.
369
00:23:57,228 --> 00:24:00,062
12 million are out of work.
370
00:24:00,139 --> 00:24:02,648
Newsreels show
abandoned coal mines
371
00:24:02,725 --> 00:24:06,485
In the town of shamokin,
in southwest pennsylvania.
372
00:24:06,562 --> 00:24:10,906
In just two years, coal output
has dropped 34 percent.
373
00:24:14,570 --> 00:24:17,496
Busted flat, with
no welfare state to help them,
374
00:24:17,573 --> 00:24:20,908
Unemployed miners
do what they need to do,
375
00:24:20,918 --> 00:24:22,918
Illegally digging for coal.
376
00:24:22,995 --> 00:24:28,424
♪
377
00:24:28,501 --> 00:24:31,719
It's dangerous work,
done on the sly.
378
00:24:34,015 --> 00:24:37,841
In teams, 3,500 men and boys
379
00:24:37,852 --> 00:24:41,103
Bootleg coal
every day but Sunday.
380
00:24:41,180 --> 00:24:42,846
They work by hand,
381
00:24:42,857 --> 00:24:46,266
Using crude but effective
homemade pumps and winches.
382
00:24:46,277 --> 00:24:53,782
♪
383
00:24:53,859 --> 00:24:57,194
Under cover of darkness,
they load five-ton trucks
384
00:24:57,205 --> 00:24:59,705
And drive to nearby towns,
385
00:24:59,782 --> 00:25:02,866
Where they sell it
right out of the truck.
386
00:25:02,877 --> 00:25:05,619
The towns depend on coal
for heat,
387
00:25:05,630 --> 00:25:09,048
And the miners make $2.50 a day,
388
00:25:09,124 --> 00:25:11,708
Which they spend
in local stores,
389
00:25:11,719 --> 00:25:15,471
Keeping communities alive
through the depression.
390
00:25:15,548 --> 00:25:18,465
Workers' desperation
is an opportunity
391
00:25:18,476 --> 00:25:20,226
For america's unions.
392
00:25:20,302 --> 00:25:22,386
[shouting]
393
00:25:22,396 --> 00:25:24,805
In the summer of 1934,
394
00:25:24,815 --> 00:25:28,817
Violence is in the air
in minneapolis, minnesota.
395
00:25:28,894 --> 00:25:31,812
Truck drivers here are fighting
for a minimum wage
396
00:25:31,822 --> 00:25:35,232
And a 40-hour week.
397
00:25:35,243 --> 00:25:38,068
Police are edgy
when the drivers' union,
398
00:25:38,079 --> 00:25:40,663
The international brotherhood
of teamsters,
399
00:25:40,739 --> 00:25:46,085
Calls on its 3,000 local members
to strike area trucking firms.
400
00:25:46,161 --> 00:25:48,912
The crowd overwhelms the city.
401
00:25:48,923 --> 00:25:53,092
Along first avenue, strikers
outnumber police ten to one.
402
00:25:53,168 --> 00:25:55,761
Unprecedented violence
breaks out.
403
00:25:55,838 --> 00:25:59,515
[shouting]
404
00:25:59,592 --> 00:26:03,760
Strikers john belor
and henry ness are shot dead.
405
00:26:03,771 --> 00:26:07,189
Special deputies
c. Arthur lyman and peter erath
406
00:26:07,266 --> 00:26:10,025
Are beaten to death.
407
00:26:10,102 --> 00:26:14,446
After 97 days, the trucking
companies finally give in.
408
00:26:17,535 --> 00:26:20,277
The strike wins over
public opinion.
409
00:26:20,288 --> 00:26:24,448
Victory gives the teamsters
national clout.
410
00:26:24,458 --> 00:26:27,376
Membership nearly doubles.
411
00:26:27,453 --> 00:26:29,202
At the height of the depression,
412
00:26:29,213 --> 00:26:33,373
Unions are beginning to win
major victories for workers.
413
00:26:33,384 --> 00:26:39,296
♪
414
00:26:39,307 --> 00:26:41,548
But that's in the city.
415
00:26:41,559 --> 00:26:44,968
The country
is a different story.
416
00:26:44,979 --> 00:26:47,554
Like millions
of other agriculture workers,
417
00:26:47,565 --> 00:26:50,733
These sharecroppers
in poinsett county, arkansas,
418
00:26:50,809 --> 00:26:54,227
Have no one
to fight in their corner.
419
00:26:54,238 --> 00:26:58,148
Tenant families are burdened
by one-sided contracts.
420
00:26:58,159 --> 00:26:59,992
One bad harvest can leave them
421
00:27:00,069 --> 00:27:02,819
Severely indebted
to their landlord.
422
00:27:02,830 --> 00:27:04,655
Unions are weak.
423
00:27:04,665 --> 00:27:08,917
Life is barely
one step above slave labor.
424
00:27:08,994 --> 00:27:11,545
Many head to northern cities.
425
00:27:14,925 --> 00:27:19,419
Harlem in upper manhattan, 1936.
426
00:27:19,430 --> 00:27:21,513
200,000 black migrants,
427
00:27:21,590 --> 00:27:24,591
On the run from
the terrible southern economy,
428
00:27:24,602 --> 00:27:26,185
Have poured in here.
429
00:27:26,261 --> 00:27:28,178
Jobs are scarce,
430
00:27:28,189 --> 00:27:32,441
But harlem's downtrodden
have a champion.
431
00:27:32,518 --> 00:27:36,362
♪
432
00:27:36,438 --> 00:27:39,615
The reverend father devine
builds a huge following
433
00:27:39,692 --> 00:27:43,110
Of tens of thousands
preaching to the poor.
434
00:27:43,120 --> 00:27:47,280
[applause and cheering]
435
00:27:47,291 --> 00:27:51,043
He puts donations
towards helping his community
436
00:27:51,120 --> 00:27:54,129
With cheap lodging,
437
00:27:54,206 --> 00:27:55,956
Discount stores,
438
00:27:55,966 --> 00:27:59,134
And low-price services.
439
00:27:59,211 --> 00:28:02,054
He calls his establishments
heavens.
440
00:28:06,802 --> 00:28:08,468
At rockland palace in harlem,
441
00:28:08,479 --> 00:28:11,555
Father devine
hosts a free banquet
442
00:28:11,565 --> 00:28:15,475
And blesses the food.
443
00:28:15,486 --> 00:28:18,570
Followers call him god on earth.
444
00:28:18,647 --> 00:28:20,572
[singing]
445
00:28:20,649 --> 00:28:23,575
With black unemployment
at nearly 50 percent,
446
00:28:23,652 --> 00:28:27,413
Father devine is keeping
tens of thousands fed and housed
447
00:28:27,489 --> 00:28:28,997
Till they get work.
448
00:28:31,827 --> 00:28:37,256
Washington, d.C.,
August 14, 1935.
449
00:28:37,332 --> 00:28:41,084
At the white house, president
franklin delano roosevelt
450
00:28:41,095 --> 00:28:43,929
Signs into law
the social security act.
451
00:28:44,006 --> 00:28:47,424
Workers have insurance
against unemployment.
452
00:28:47,435 --> 00:28:52,846
Now losing a job does not
have to mean losing everything.
453
00:28:52,857 --> 00:28:56,933
Fdr names frances perkins
his labor secretary,
454
00:28:56,944 --> 00:29:01,613
The first woman
to hold any cabinet job.
455
00:29:01,690 --> 00:29:02,689
Frances perkins:
With the passage
456
00:29:02,700 --> 00:29:04,116
Of the social security bill,
457
00:29:04,193 --> 00:29:06,193
Life in the united states
of america
458
00:29:06,203 --> 00:29:08,862
Will be considerably better
in the future
459
00:29:08,873 --> 00:29:11,865
For all the people.
460
00:29:11,876 --> 00:29:14,034
Narrator: Perkins witnessed
the triangle waist company
461
00:29:14,044 --> 00:29:16,962
Factory fire 24 years earlier,
462
00:29:17,039 --> 00:29:19,047
Arriving at the scene by chance
463
00:29:19,124 --> 00:29:22,050
To see women
jumping from windows.
464
00:29:22,127 --> 00:29:24,303
Ever since,
she has been passionate
465
00:29:24,379 --> 00:29:26,597
About protecting
american workers.
466
00:29:29,310 --> 00:29:32,552
Hoping to get two million women
back into work,
467
00:29:32,563 --> 00:29:37,483
She sets up camps designed to
train unemployed single women.
468
00:29:37,559 --> 00:29:39,735
Camp jane addams
at bear mountain
469
00:29:39,812 --> 00:29:41,862
In upstate new york
is the first.
470
00:29:44,325 --> 00:29:48,869
Its initial enrollment of 17
are bussed in from nearby towns.
471
00:29:51,156 --> 00:29:54,917
During their three-month stay,
campers take vocational classes
472
00:29:54,993 --> 00:29:57,336
And enjoy
recreational activities
473
00:29:57,412 --> 00:29:59,755
While being paid $5 a month.
474
00:30:02,676 --> 00:30:04,760
At camps around the country,
475
00:30:04,837 --> 00:30:08,839
Thousands have
life-changing experiences.
476
00:30:08,849 --> 00:30:10,682
But americans
would rather spend money
477
00:30:10,759 --> 00:30:14,344
On training men
to rebuild the country.
478
00:30:14,355 --> 00:30:19,316
By 1937, funding is gone,
and the camps close.
479
00:30:24,940 --> 00:30:27,741
In some areas,
the recovery starts early.
480
00:30:31,455 --> 00:30:35,374
In 1933, congress
repeals prohibition,
481
00:30:35,450 --> 00:30:38,201
In place since 1919,
482
00:30:38,212 --> 00:30:40,629
And the liquor industry booms.
483
00:30:43,292 --> 00:30:45,300
Within four hours of repeal,
484
00:30:45,377 --> 00:30:48,303
Schlitz beverage company
of milwaukee, wisconsin,
485
00:30:48,380 --> 00:30:50,472
Has beer on the loading docks.
486
00:30:52,810 --> 00:30:57,229
During prohibition, schlitz
kept 2,000 people working
487
00:30:57,306 --> 00:31:01,808
By producing a cereal
soft drink called famo.
488
00:31:01,819 --> 00:31:03,727
With the beer
that made milwaukee famous
489
00:31:03,737 --> 00:31:05,312
Back on the shelves,
490
00:31:05,322 --> 00:31:08,740
The local industry
hires 8,000 more workers.
491
00:31:08,817 --> 00:31:14,654
♪
492
00:31:14,665 --> 00:31:18,083
Schlitz becomes
the world's leading brewery,
493
00:31:18,160 --> 00:31:22,746
And americans
are back to boozing.
494
00:31:22,756 --> 00:31:28,302
Within 18 months of repeal,
$2 billion of beer is sold.
495
00:31:30,172 --> 00:31:32,264
Everyone is happy.
496
00:31:35,260 --> 00:31:38,103
Man: Drink it right down, now.
Atta-boy!
497
00:31:38,180 --> 00:31:39,521
Man: More!
498
00:31:41,775 --> 00:31:44,443
Narrator: Even beauty queen
miss old England
499
00:31:44,519 --> 00:31:45,769
Wets her whistle.
500
00:31:45,779 --> 00:31:49,656
[applause]
501
00:31:53,287 --> 00:31:55,528
Americans have
spent the thirties
502
00:31:55,539 --> 00:31:57,456
Getting the country
working again.
503
00:31:59,534 --> 00:32:04,371
In 1939, with recovery in sight,
the new york world's fair
504
00:32:04,381 --> 00:32:08,959
Celebrates american labor
and its achievements.
505
00:32:08,969 --> 00:32:12,179
The theme is building
the world of tomorrow.
506
00:32:15,309 --> 00:32:18,226
New westinghouse chairman
david youngholm
507
00:32:18,303 --> 00:32:20,646
Helps assemble a time capsule.
508
00:32:20,722 --> 00:32:23,899
The contents reflect
american workers' ingenuity
509
00:32:23,976 --> 00:32:26,568
And efficiency--
510
00:32:26,645 --> 00:32:30,238
A memo to the future about
the american way of life
511
00:32:30,315 --> 00:32:33,617
To be opened in 5,000 years.
512
00:32:35,904 --> 00:32:37,988
The hall of nations showcases
513
00:32:37,998 --> 00:32:43,243
The cultures of France,
belgium, and czechoslovakia.
514
00:32:43,253 --> 00:32:48,748
By fair's end, these nations
will be under the nazi boot,
515
00:32:48,759 --> 00:32:55,430
And in two years, the same war
will entangle american workers.
516
00:32:55,507 --> 00:32:59,926
♪
517
00:32:59,937 --> 00:33:02,938
December 1941,
518
00:33:03,015 --> 00:33:05,232
The united states is at war.
519
00:33:07,861 --> 00:33:11,279
Industrial production
increases 96 percent.
520
00:33:13,534 --> 00:33:17,536
American factories
build 300,000 warplanes.
521
00:33:17,612 --> 00:33:22,115
♪
522
00:33:22,126 --> 00:33:24,126
At a bomber plant in seattle,
523
00:33:24,202 --> 00:33:27,713
Workers sign
a b-17 flying fortress.
524
00:33:27,789 --> 00:33:30,966
Five shiny new aircraft
roll off the production line
525
00:33:31,043 --> 00:33:34,377
Every day, seven days a week.
526
00:33:34,388 --> 00:33:38,131
This is number 5000.
527
00:33:38,142 --> 00:33:42,060
But with millions of american
men at and behind the front,
528
00:33:42,137 --> 00:33:46,231
The nation needs pilots
to ferry planes to air bases.
529
00:33:49,811 --> 00:33:53,155
Pilot jacqueline cochran
has an ambitious idea.
530
00:33:53,231 --> 00:33:55,240
She persuades the air force
531
00:33:55,317 --> 00:33:59,069
To hire female pilots
for the first time.
532
00:33:59,079 --> 00:34:01,154
At ellington field in texas,
533
00:34:01,165 --> 00:34:03,239
She presents
the first graduating class
534
00:34:03,250 --> 00:34:07,252
Of women air force
service pilots, or wasps,
535
00:34:07,329 --> 00:34:10,172
With their wings.
536
00:34:10,248 --> 00:34:12,999
After a kiss
from her ten-year-old daughter,
537
00:34:13,010 --> 00:34:16,803
Wasp natalie ellis takes off
for a training session.
538
00:34:20,425 --> 00:34:23,593
During the war,
more than 1,000 wasps
539
00:34:23,604 --> 00:34:29,349
Ferry over 12,000 warplanes
from factories to bases.
540
00:34:29,359 --> 00:34:32,018
Three decades will pass
before women are allowed
541
00:34:32,029 --> 00:34:34,863
To pilot
u.S. Military aircraft again.
542
00:34:37,785 --> 00:34:38,909
[whirring]
543
00:34:40,529 --> 00:34:44,039
Wartime demands speed up
technological change,
544
00:34:44,116 --> 00:34:47,542
Creating new industries
and skills.
545
00:34:47,619 --> 00:34:53,623
This rare footage from may 1944
shows ibm's mark I,
546
00:34:53,634 --> 00:34:57,552
The world's first large-scale
digital computer.
547
00:34:59,881 --> 00:35:02,215
Naval personnel run mark I
548
00:35:02,226 --> 00:35:06,636
Under chief programmer,
admiral grace hopper.
549
00:35:06,647 --> 00:35:10,306
This five-ton wonder
produces calculating tables
550
00:35:10,317 --> 00:35:13,652
For artillery shells and bombs,
551
00:35:13,728 --> 00:35:17,147
Completing three calculations
per second.
552
00:35:17,157 --> 00:35:20,617
Today, a smartphone
makes 40 million.
553
00:35:22,571 --> 00:35:26,072
Mark I jump-starts
the information technology age.
554
00:35:26,083 --> 00:35:27,666
For this new industry,
555
00:35:27,742 --> 00:35:31,837
The old way of labor
is not going to work.
556
00:35:31,913 --> 00:35:36,091
It will require a more educated
and skilled workforce.
557
00:35:39,179 --> 00:35:43,173
As peace nears,
fdr signs the gi bill,
558
00:35:43,183 --> 00:35:47,644
Offering veterans $500
for education and job training.
559
00:35:50,265 --> 00:35:54,276
In 1947, over half the students
enrolled at universities
560
00:35:54,352 --> 00:35:55,944
Are veterans.
561
00:35:57,698 --> 00:36:00,198
Another five million
military personnel
562
00:36:00,275 --> 00:36:04,119
Are in apprenticeships.
563
00:36:04,196 --> 00:36:08,448
The gi bill produces the world's
best educated workforce,
564
00:36:08,458 --> 00:36:11,251
And american business
runs with it.
565
00:36:15,966 --> 00:36:17,966
Hartford, connecticut.
566
00:36:18,043 --> 00:36:20,969
With the war over, the american
entrepreneurial spirit
567
00:36:21,046 --> 00:36:22,554
Is kicking in again.
568
00:36:25,133 --> 00:36:27,726
Hartford is home
to the fuller brush company,
569
00:36:27,802 --> 00:36:30,770
America's best-known
door-to-door sales outfit.
570
00:36:32,482 --> 00:36:33,973
The fuller brush man sells
571
00:36:33,984 --> 00:36:38,144
A range of personal care
and household brushes.
572
00:36:38,155 --> 00:36:41,981
In 1948, more than 7,000
fuller brush men
573
00:36:41,992 --> 00:36:44,868
Knock on 50 million
american front doors.
574
00:36:48,073 --> 00:36:51,908
The key to success
is getting in the door.
575
00:36:51,919 --> 00:36:54,827
A free sample brush often helps.
576
00:36:54,838 --> 00:36:56,755
Buying their own sample kits,
577
00:36:56,831 --> 00:36:59,925
They keep half of what they make
on every sale.
578
00:37:03,672 --> 00:37:06,848
In 1948, fullerettes arrive,
579
00:37:06,925 --> 00:37:09,559
Organizing
home cosmetic parties.
580
00:37:11,939 --> 00:37:13,179
Woman: All you have to do
581
00:37:13,190 --> 00:37:15,515
Is invite about 12 or 15
of your friends
582
00:37:15,525 --> 00:37:18,526
To drop over some afternoon
or evening for a party,
583
00:37:18,603 --> 00:37:20,028
And I'll help you put it on.
584
00:37:21,940 --> 00:37:24,440
Narrator: Fullerettes
also work on commission,
585
00:37:24,451 --> 00:37:28,036
Averaging $2 an hour
selling beauty products
586
00:37:28,113 --> 00:37:32,699
And establishing the first
hostess party business model,
587
00:37:32,709 --> 00:37:36,035
Now a $30-billion industry.
588
00:37:36,046 --> 00:37:39,631
♪
589
00:37:39,708 --> 00:37:43,885
As the forties end,
new industries like these
590
00:37:43,962 --> 00:37:47,130
Will revolutionize
american workers' lives.
591
00:37:47,140 --> 00:37:52,227
♪
592
00:37:52,304 --> 00:37:55,054
The 1950s see
the american worker
593
00:37:55,065 --> 00:37:57,223
Experience
the most dramatic change
594
00:37:57,234 --> 00:38:00,068
Since the industrial revolution.
595
00:38:00,145 --> 00:38:05,064
An entirely new sector
sprouts 13 million jobs--
596
00:38:05,075 --> 00:38:08,568
The service industry.
597
00:38:08,578 --> 00:38:11,329
Dick spady is an early pioneer.
598
00:38:11,406 --> 00:38:14,833
In 1954,
he opens dick's drive-in,
599
00:38:14,909 --> 00:38:16,326
A new kind of restaurant
600
00:38:16,336 --> 00:38:19,921
In the seattle neighborhood
of wallingford.
601
00:38:19,998 --> 00:38:22,165
This never-before-seen footage
602
00:38:22,175 --> 00:38:25,168
Shows how spady
and americans like him
603
00:38:25,178 --> 00:38:27,470
Upend the food service industry.
604
00:38:30,258 --> 00:38:33,435
He has burger flipping
down to a science.
605
00:38:33,511 --> 00:38:35,770
Speed is profit,
606
00:38:35,847 --> 00:38:38,681
And there are
no fast-food unions.
607
00:38:38,692 --> 00:38:42,944
♪
608
00:38:43,021 --> 00:38:46,356
But dick spady knows
what heinz and hershey knew--
609
00:38:46,366 --> 00:38:50,118
That when you treat workers
right, they do right by you.
610
00:38:53,123 --> 00:38:54,697
He pays a high wage
611
00:38:54,708 --> 00:38:58,368
And donates $1 million
in university scholarships
612
00:38:58,378 --> 00:39:00,462
To his student employees.
613
00:39:02,466 --> 00:39:04,707
They keep the burgers coming,
614
00:39:04,718 --> 00:39:07,794
And fast food is here to stay.
615
00:39:07,804 --> 00:39:13,224
♪
616
00:39:13,301 --> 00:39:15,894
Along new york city's
7th avenue,
617
00:39:15,970 --> 00:39:18,563
The ready-to-wear
garment district bustles.
618
00:39:20,642 --> 00:39:24,235
Lombardy dress corporation
is doing business just two miles
619
00:39:24,312 --> 00:39:28,073
From where the triangle factory
fire shocked manhattanites.
620
00:39:31,319 --> 00:39:34,996
Things have changed
in the last 40 years.
621
00:39:35,073 --> 00:39:36,581
New tools and methods
622
00:39:36,658 --> 00:39:41,160
Enable mass production
of two million garments a year.
623
00:39:41,171 --> 00:39:44,672
Lombardy is one
of over 3,000 dress firms
624
00:39:44,749 --> 00:39:50,253
That copy the latest couture
designs for the mass market.
625
00:39:50,263 --> 00:39:51,846
Only 40 years ago,
626
00:39:51,923 --> 00:39:54,841
Garment makers were
exploiting their workers.
627
00:39:54,851 --> 00:39:57,510
Now the workers have power,
628
00:39:57,521 --> 00:40:01,097
Thanks to the international
ladies garment workers union,
629
00:40:01,108 --> 00:40:06,018
Better known as the ilgwu.
630
00:40:06,029 --> 00:40:09,781
Their 420,000 members
get a dime more an hour
631
00:40:09,858 --> 00:40:12,200
Than the average
manufacturing worker,
632
00:40:12,277 --> 00:40:17,455
Plus paid vacations,
health insurance, and a pension.
633
00:40:17,532 --> 00:40:19,031
By the mid-1950s,
634
00:40:19,042 --> 00:40:22,293
Union membership
is at an all-time high,
635
00:40:22,370 --> 00:40:25,338
With a third of the american
workforce organized.
636
00:40:28,301 --> 00:40:32,720
Miami beach, florida,
October 1957.
637
00:40:32,797 --> 00:40:35,882
One of america's biggest,
most powerful unions
638
00:40:35,892 --> 00:40:37,300
Is heading for trouble.
639
00:40:37,310 --> 00:40:40,470
[cheering]
640
00:40:40,480 --> 00:40:43,481
Jimmy hoffa celebrates
his election as president
641
00:40:43,558 --> 00:40:46,309
Of the international brotherhood
of teamsters
642
00:40:46,319 --> 00:40:48,862
In front of thousands
of cheering supporters.
643
00:40:54,327 --> 00:40:56,152
Within a month,
hoffa is summoned
644
00:40:56,163 --> 00:40:59,238
To the u.S. Courthouse
in foley square in new york,
645
00:40:59,249 --> 00:41:02,325
Defending accusations
of funding irregularities
646
00:41:02,335 --> 00:41:05,003
And links to organized crime.
647
00:41:05,079 --> 00:41:09,499
♪
648
00:41:09,509 --> 00:41:13,595
Chief counsel robert kennedy
and u.S. Senator john kennedy
649
00:41:13,671 --> 00:41:15,680
Lead the investigation.
650
00:41:15,757 --> 00:41:17,089
Robert kennedy:
We're exempting everyone
651
00:41:17,100 --> 00:41:18,850
But racketeers
and hoodlums and crooks.
652
00:41:18,927 --> 00:41:19,926
Jimmy hoffa:
I would like to have you
653
00:41:19,936 --> 00:41:21,594
Drop that language, sir.
654
00:41:21,605 --> 00:41:23,938
Narrator: The nation is gripped.
655
00:41:24,015 --> 00:41:29,194
1.2 million americans tune in
to their new tvs daily.
656
00:41:29,270 --> 00:41:32,780
Hoffa is questioned over the use
of unions' pension funds
657
00:41:32,857 --> 00:41:37,285
To loan money
to organized crime figures.
658
00:41:37,362 --> 00:41:38,861
When the committee
cross-examines
659
00:41:38,872 --> 00:41:42,624
Mob boss
salvatore "sam" giancana,
660
00:41:42,700 --> 00:41:45,701
He invokes the fifth amendment
against self-incrimination
661
00:41:45,712 --> 00:41:49,964
34 times in 2 hours.
662
00:41:50,041 --> 00:41:51,457
Giancana: Decline to answer
because I honestly believe
663
00:41:51,468 --> 00:41:52,708
My answer might tend
to incriminate me.
664
00:41:52,719 --> 00:41:53,718
Kennedy:
Can you tell us anything
665
00:41:53,795 --> 00:41:55,378
About any of your operations,
666
00:41:55,388 --> 00:41:58,473
Or you'll just giggle
every time I ask you a question?
667
00:41:58,550 --> 00:42:02,385
Narrator: Despite 270 days
of damaging hearings,
668
00:42:02,395 --> 00:42:05,730
Hoffa returns
to business as usual.
669
00:42:05,807 --> 00:42:07,807
In the 1960s, however,
670
00:42:07,817 --> 00:42:11,978
He's convicted of jury tampering
and goes to prison.
671
00:42:11,988 --> 00:42:16,574
Upon his release, hoffa
vanishes in detroit, michigan.
672
00:42:16,651 --> 00:42:20,403
He's never seen again.
673
00:42:20,413 --> 00:42:23,072
After the huge gains
they made for their members,
674
00:42:23,083 --> 00:42:24,499
Such as pension funds
675
00:42:24,576 --> 00:42:28,002
Worth a quarter
of a billion dollars by 1957,
676
00:42:28,079 --> 00:42:32,840
Organized labor gradually
loses momentum and membership.
677
00:42:33,760 --> 00:42:36,586
[baby fussing]
678
00:42:36,596 --> 00:42:41,849
In 1957, america is in the midst
of a record baby boom,
679
00:42:41,926 --> 00:42:44,644
Producing 4.3 million babies.
680
00:42:47,181 --> 00:42:50,016
Jobs change with the times,
681
00:42:50,026 --> 00:42:54,279
And a host of new
service industries appear.
682
00:42:54,355 --> 00:42:58,032
In roxborough, pennsylvania,
dy-dee diaper is washing
683
00:42:58,109 --> 00:43:01,160
Nearly half a million
dirty diapers every month.
684
00:43:03,364 --> 00:43:07,625
Each piece of cloth gets
four washings, seven rinses,
685
00:43:07,702 --> 00:43:10,962
And a spritz of antiseptic.
686
00:43:11,039 --> 00:43:14,632
Dy-dee is one of 700
american diaper services,
687
00:43:14,709 --> 00:43:20,463
Whose revenues total $50 million
yearly during the baby boom.
688
00:43:20,473 --> 00:43:23,132
America's surging population
is boosting
689
00:43:23,143 --> 00:43:26,978
The suburban expansion
that began after the war.
690
00:43:27,055 --> 00:43:32,725
In california, developers
build 250,000 new houses.
691
00:43:32,736 --> 00:43:35,612
This residence is
state-of-the-suburban-art.
692
00:43:37,240 --> 00:43:39,148
Push-button everything.
693
00:43:39,159 --> 00:43:43,819
♪
694
00:43:43,830 --> 00:43:45,571
Even a snack for fido.
695
00:43:45,582 --> 00:43:49,659
♪
696
00:43:49,669 --> 00:43:54,080
These labor-saving devices
symbolize affluence and freedom
697
00:43:54,090 --> 00:43:57,083
For a generation
of white-collar workers.
698
00:43:57,093 --> 00:44:02,347
♪
699
00:44:02,423 --> 00:44:05,424
Upwardly mobile americans
have a third more buying power
700
00:44:05,435 --> 00:44:08,019
Than their predecessors
in the 1940s...
701
00:44:10,014 --> 00:44:12,607
...And they're spending
as never before.
702
00:44:14,694 --> 00:44:17,436
Announcer: Still searching
for the perfect deodorant?
703
00:44:17,447 --> 00:44:21,190
Narrator: By 1955, more than
two thirds of american homes
704
00:44:21,201 --> 00:44:23,025
Have a tv,
705
00:44:23,036 --> 00:44:26,621
Creating an enormous audience
for a new kind of advertising.
706
00:44:29,117 --> 00:44:31,876
Stephen frankfurt
runs young & rubicam,
707
00:44:31,953 --> 00:44:34,128
A leading ad firm.
708
00:44:34,205 --> 00:44:36,205
Their office on madison avenue
709
00:44:36,216 --> 00:44:39,759
Is fashionable, creative,
and professional.
710
00:44:42,130 --> 00:44:46,307
The cameras offer a glimpse
into a new way of working,
711
00:44:46,384 --> 00:44:47,967
At least for the men.
712
00:44:47,977 --> 00:44:52,555
♪
713
00:44:52,565 --> 00:44:54,148
Stephen frankfurt:
Advertising does sell people
714
00:44:54,225 --> 00:44:58,403
Things they don't need,
things like television sets,
715
00:44:58,479 --> 00:45:01,397
Automobiles, ketchup,
mattresses.
716
00:45:01,408 --> 00:45:03,074
Narrator:
At frankfurt's factory,
717
00:45:03,151 --> 00:45:06,569
The assembly line
fashions ideas into words
718
00:45:06,579 --> 00:45:09,247
That persuade consumers to buy.
719
00:45:09,323 --> 00:45:11,082
This is creative labor,
720
00:45:11,159 --> 00:45:16,078
And y&r's president is
aggressive, wealthy, and famous.
721
00:45:16,089 --> 00:45:21,008
The mad men are as much a brand
as the products they sell.
722
00:45:21,085 --> 00:45:24,762
America rides the leading edge
of television advertising,
723
00:45:24,839 --> 00:45:29,175
An industry
worth $100 billion today.
724
00:45:29,185 --> 00:45:30,435
Announcer:
And parker's exclusive
725
00:45:30,511 --> 00:45:31,853
Electro-polished point...
726
00:45:31,929 --> 00:45:33,512
Narrator: By the 1960s,
727
00:45:33,523 --> 00:45:37,266
Tv ads are reaching 90 percent
of american households.
728
00:45:37,277 --> 00:45:41,854
Advertising revenues increase
tenfold in just two years,
729
00:45:41,865 --> 00:45:46,692
Propelling american companies
into global super-brands.
730
00:45:46,703 --> 00:45:49,111
Woman: And here's
this week's heinz hint.
731
00:45:49,122 --> 00:45:50,455
Make a welsh rarebit,
732
00:45:50,531 --> 00:45:52,698
Mixing in heinz ketchup
with the cheese.
733
00:45:52,709 --> 00:45:54,033
That's a tomato rarebit.
734
00:45:54,043 --> 00:45:55,460
Narrator:
Young & rubicam launch
735
00:45:55,536 --> 00:45:58,621
An international campaign
for heinz,
736
00:45:58,631 --> 00:46:02,958
Declaring 1957
the year of heinz.
737
00:46:02,969 --> 00:46:09,465
Results--heinz global sales
exceed $278 million.
738
00:46:09,476 --> 00:46:11,726
♪ that's heinz 57 ♪
739
00:46:11,803 --> 00:46:14,061
Venerable soft drink coca-cola
740
00:46:14,138 --> 00:46:17,973
Wants more of the post-war
boom babies to love coke,
741
00:46:17,984 --> 00:46:20,485
So the company
sponsors a series,
742
00:46:20,561 --> 00:46:23,229
"the adventures
of kit carson."
743
00:46:23,239 --> 00:46:25,564
Boy: Boy, would I like
to be kit carson!
744
00:46:25,575 --> 00:46:27,399
Girl: Hi, kit.
Where's your horse?
745
00:46:27,410 --> 00:46:29,494
[laughter]
746
00:46:30,905 --> 00:46:32,246
Woman: Well,
anybody here interested
747
00:46:32,323 --> 00:46:33,539
In sandwiches and coke?
748
00:46:35,743 --> 00:46:39,337
Narrator: Coke is on its way
to world domination,
749
00:46:39,413 --> 00:46:43,341
Assuming its place
among the giants of commerce.
750
00:46:43,417 --> 00:46:47,261
Announcer: Six and a half
magic hours to europe.
751
00:46:47,338 --> 00:46:51,924
Narrator: America is exporting
itself worldwide.
752
00:46:51,935 --> 00:46:55,594
In the late 1950s,
pan am begins promoting itself
753
00:46:55,605 --> 00:46:59,023
As "the" international
air carrier,
754
00:46:59,100 --> 00:47:03,018
With ad campaigns that emphasize
business travelers.
755
00:47:03,029 --> 00:47:04,779
Customers go for it,
756
00:47:04,856 --> 00:47:09,283
And more than 28 million
business passengers buy tickets.
757
00:47:09,360 --> 00:47:15,531
Pan am ads sell gloss, luxury,
glamour, and sex.
758
00:47:15,542 --> 00:47:18,459
Flight attendants
smile like movie stars,
759
00:47:18,536 --> 00:47:21,587
Pouring cocktails
eight miles high.
760
00:47:25,293 --> 00:47:27,051
In half a century,
761
00:47:27,128 --> 00:47:30,972
American workers have lived
through multiple revolutions.
762
00:47:31,048 --> 00:47:33,558
Wages have more than doubled.
763
00:47:33,634 --> 00:47:37,219
The work week
is a third shorter.
764
00:47:37,230 --> 00:47:40,314
Parents who worked
standing up at machines
765
00:47:40,391 --> 00:47:45,069
Have children who make
their livings with their minds.
766
00:47:45,146 --> 00:47:47,730
Complicated
and sometimes frustrating,
767
00:47:47,740 --> 00:47:51,901
The american dream
has come true for many,
768
00:47:51,911 --> 00:47:56,122
And american workers are among
the richest in the world.
65308
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