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These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:02,636 --> 00:00:04,369 Narrator: This is the story of america 2 00:00:04,372 --> 00:00:08,373 Seen in color for the first time. 3 00:00:08,376 --> 00:00:10,976 The dawn of the 20th century. 4 00:00:11,045 --> 00:00:15,047 America is on the rise. 5 00:00:15,115 --> 00:00:19,985 Now bold pioneers will lead it to even greater heights, 6 00:00:20,054 --> 00:00:25,657 With inventions, technologies, and mighty industries 7 00:00:25,726 --> 00:00:30,062 That transform america and the world. 8 00:00:30,064 --> 00:00:33,665 But the changes also trigger division. 9 00:00:33,734 --> 00:00:38,337 This is the story of america's titans of industry 10 00:00:38,405 --> 00:00:41,173 As you have never seen them before. 11 00:00:43,277 --> 00:00:57,423 ♪ 12 00:00:57,491 --> 00:01:11,837 ♪ 13 00:01:11,905 --> 00:01:15,774 In 1910, this is life in america. 14 00:01:19,713 --> 00:01:23,982 It is still a mostly rural nation. 15 00:01:23,984 --> 00:01:26,785 People go places on foot. 16 00:01:26,854 --> 00:01:32,791 For extra muscle, nothing can beat the horse. 17 00:01:32,793 --> 00:01:36,795 But all this is about to change. 18 00:01:39,867 --> 00:01:42,267 May 30, 1911. 19 00:01:42,336 --> 00:01:44,937 America's fastest-growing industry 20 00:01:45,005 --> 00:01:50,342 Descends on indianapolis for memorial day. 21 00:01:50,410 --> 00:01:54,680 This is the very first indy 500. 22 00:01:56,617 --> 00:02:00,752 For 200 laps, drivers, their mechanics right beside them, 23 00:02:00,754 --> 00:02:03,088 Battle through plumes of white smoke 24 00:02:03,157 --> 00:02:05,023 From burning castor oil. 25 00:02:08,162 --> 00:02:11,630 With the racecars going over 70 miles per hour, 26 00:02:11,632 --> 00:02:14,233 The daredevils flirt with danger. 27 00:02:16,170 --> 00:02:18,904 Lap 87. 28 00:02:18,972 --> 00:02:21,706 Joe jagersberger breaks a steering nut 29 00:02:21,709 --> 00:02:25,443 And his onboard mechanic is thrown onto the track. 30 00:02:25,446 --> 00:02:28,447 Harry knight swerves to avoid him 31 00:02:28,515 --> 00:02:33,385 And careens into the pit road. 32 00:02:33,453 --> 00:02:35,521 No lives are lost. 33 00:02:35,589 --> 00:02:39,791 But jagersberger and knight are knocked out of the race. 34 00:02:39,860 --> 00:02:41,293 [whistle blows] 35 00:02:43,864 --> 00:02:46,865 One driver, ray harroun, in the yellow car, 36 00:02:46,934 --> 00:02:48,867 Has a tactical advantage. 37 00:02:48,936 --> 00:02:52,137 He's driving solo thanks to a new invention: 38 00:02:52,206 --> 00:02:54,940 The rear-view mirror. 39 00:02:54,942 --> 00:03:00,212 With no passenger, harroun's car is lighter and faster. 40 00:03:03,217 --> 00:03:08,220 He takes the checkered flag and shows america 41 00:03:08,288 --> 00:03:12,057 That even a small innovation can provide the winning edge. 42 00:03:14,294 --> 00:03:19,765 The indy 500 will become an american institution. 43 00:03:26,573 --> 00:03:28,240 In the rest of the country 44 00:03:28,308 --> 00:03:35,513 There are only 600,000 cars for some 93 million people. 45 00:03:35,516 --> 00:03:40,385 Most american homes don't yet have electricity. 46 00:03:40,454 --> 00:03:44,756 And over a third of the population still lives on farms. 47 00:03:48,662 --> 00:03:51,062 But a new generation of industrial titans 48 00:03:51,065 --> 00:03:53,265 Will reshape that landscape. 49 00:03:53,267 --> 00:03:57,269 And three of them will help tell their own stories. 50 00:03:57,271 --> 00:04:01,540 Henry ford, harvey firestone, 51 00:04:01,608 --> 00:04:05,210 And thomas edison. 52 00:04:05,279 --> 00:04:07,679 Not only do they transform america, 53 00:04:07,748 --> 00:04:10,949 But they use a new invention, the movie camera, 54 00:04:11,018 --> 00:04:14,186 To make sure that everyone knows it. 55 00:04:19,626 --> 00:04:23,962 In 1908, michigan's henry ford, son of an irish immigrant, 56 00:04:24,031 --> 00:04:27,299 Embarks on an audacious mission, 57 00:04:27,301 --> 00:04:31,236 Creating what he calls "a motor car for the multitude." 58 00:04:31,238 --> 00:04:38,176 His model t sells for $850, around $23,000 today. 59 00:04:38,178 --> 00:04:42,914 Ford is a master of the publicity stunt. 60 00:04:42,916 --> 00:04:46,985 These are rare images: Auto polo in new york city. 61 00:04:47,054 --> 00:04:49,988 The games promote model t sales, 62 00:04:49,990 --> 00:04:53,258 Which hit 10,000 cars in the first year. 63 00:04:55,862 --> 00:05:00,131 To reduce costs, ford pioneers mass production 64 00:05:00,134 --> 00:05:03,468 And cuts deals with other captains of industry, 65 00:05:03,537 --> 00:05:07,072 Like ohio's harvey firestone. 66 00:05:07,140 --> 00:05:10,142 In 1900, the one-time buggy salesman 67 00:05:10,210 --> 00:05:13,478 Risks his own money, $10,000, 68 00:05:13,480 --> 00:05:17,882 To set up a rubber tire factory in akron. 69 00:05:17,885 --> 00:05:21,820 He starts making pneumatic tires inflated with air 70 00:05:21,822 --> 00:05:26,091 That gives cars a smoother ride on the country's rough roads. 71 00:05:29,496 --> 00:05:33,498 In 1906 henry ford recognizes their quality 72 00:05:33,500 --> 00:05:37,769 After a 60-day test drive on the streets of detroit. 73 00:05:41,041 --> 00:05:46,378 He buys 8,000 in what is the biggest tire deal to date, 74 00:05:46,380 --> 00:05:51,850 Paying the equivalent of $2.8 million today. 75 00:05:51,918 --> 00:05:55,120 Firestone and ford are following in the footsteps 76 00:05:55,122 --> 00:05:59,858 Of the previous generation of industrialists... 77 00:05:59,926 --> 00:06:03,061 The men who pioneered big business in america, 78 00:06:03,063 --> 00:06:08,200 One of whom still stands on top of the financial pyramid. 79 00:06:08,268 --> 00:06:14,606 John d. Rockefeller, worth $900 million. 80 00:06:14,674 --> 00:06:19,677 His giant company, standard oil, began as an ohio refinery 81 00:06:19,680 --> 00:06:24,549 But has grown to monopolize the market. 82 00:06:24,551 --> 00:06:26,017 His gasoline fuels 83 00:06:26,019 --> 00:06:31,022 Ford and firestone's booming auto industry. 84 00:06:31,091 --> 00:06:34,226 He also sells the kerosene that most americans still use 85 00:06:34,294 --> 00:06:37,229 To light and heat their homes. 86 00:06:37,297 --> 00:06:41,767 But in the 20th century, kerosene has a serious rival. 87 00:06:43,770 --> 00:06:49,441 America's homes are filling with electric light 88 00:06:49,509 --> 00:06:52,711 Made possible by thomas a. Edison, 89 00:06:52,779 --> 00:06:54,979 Legendary pioneer of the light bulb, 90 00:06:54,982 --> 00:06:58,717 Phonograph and the movie camera. 91 00:06:58,785 --> 00:07:01,386 Seen here on a tour of the company he founded, 92 00:07:01,455 --> 00:07:02,854 General electric, 93 00:07:02,923 --> 00:07:07,859 Edison initiates the electrification of america. 94 00:07:07,861 --> 00:07:10,262 But progress is slow. 95 00:07:10,330 --> 00:07:13,331 In 1910, only 1 in 10 households 96 00:07:13,400 --> 00:07:17,002 Can benefit from edison's filament bulbs. 97 00:07:17,070 --> 00:07:26,344 ♪ 98 00:07:26,413 --> 00:07:30,081 A quarter of the nation's factories are on the grid 99 00:07:30,083 --> 00:07:34,419 And are increasingly automated. 100 00:07:34,421 --> 00:07:38,289 Edison, interviewed by fox movietone in 1929, 101 00:07:38,292 --> 00:07:40,959 Sees endless possibilities for the electrification 102 00:07:40,961 --> 00:07:42,961 Of american industry. 103 00:07:43,029 --> 00:07:45,163 Thomas edison: I firmly believe that the machine age 104 00:07:45,232 --> 00:07:48,433 Will favorably affect the lives of the workers. 105 00:07:48,502 --> 00:07:51,169 It is impossible, however, to forecast 106 00:07:51,238 --> 00:07:54,038 What electricity and invention will make of the world 107 00:07:54,041 --> 00:07:55,974 100 years hence. 108 00:07:55,976 --> 00:08:00,912 We don't know a millionth of one percent about anything. 109 00:08:00,914 --> 00:08:04,849 Narrator: This is henry ford's electrified factory in detroit, 110 00:08:04,852 --> 00:08:07,252 Where in 1913 he introduces 111 00:08:07,320 --> 00:08:11,990 The world's first moving assembly line. 112 00:08:12,058 --> 00:08:13,324 Parts roll through 113 00:08:13,327 --> 00:08:15,994 On electrically powered conveyor belts, 114 00:08:16,062 --> 00:08:18,129 Cutting the time needed to make a model t 115 00:08:18,198 --> 00:08:22,601 Down from 12 hours to 90 minutes. 116 00:08:22,669 --> 00:08:25,003 But automation takes a toll. 117 00:08:25,005 --> 00:08:28,673 Skilled mechanics leave in droves. 118 00:08:28,742 --> 00:08:32,344 In their place, ford hires unskilled laborers; 119 00:08:32,412 --> 00:08:35,413 Any man off the street will do. 120 00:08:35,482 --> 00:08:39,684 The work is dull, monotonous and relentless. 121 00:08:39,686 --> 00:08:42,086 Many can't stand it. 122 00:08:42,089 --> 00:08:47,692 In 1913 alone, ford has to hire 52,000 people 123 00:08:47,694 --> 00:08:52,297 Just to keep 14,000 positions filled. 124 00:08:52,365 --> 00:08:54,098 To stabilize his workforce 125 00:08:54,101 --> 00:08:58,703 He raises pay to $5 for an eight-hour day. 126 00:08:58,705 --> 00:09:01,439 The move garners positive national publicity 127 00:09:01,441 --> 00:09:03,775 And appears to solve the problem... 128 00:09:03,777 --> 00:09:05,644 For now. 129 00:09:08,381 --> 00:09:10,648 The higher wages turn blue collar workers 130 00:09:10,651 --> 00:09:13,718 Into consumers. 131 00:09:13,787 --> 00:09:15,920 They buy labor-saving goods 132 00:09:15,923 --> 00:09:20,191 All powered by the expanding electrical grid. 133 00:09:20,193 --> 00:09:23,995 Toasters, cigar lighters, 134 00:09:23,997 --> 00:09:25,930 Ovens, and heaters 135 00:09:25,933 --> 00:09:28,533 All built by general electric, 136 00:09:28,535 --> 00:09:32,037 The company founded by thomas edison. 137 00:09:35,342 --> 00:09:37,742 The nerve center of edison's operation 138 00:09:37,744 --> 00:09:42,080 Is his headquarters in west orange, new jersey. 139 00:09:42,148 --> 00:09:44,549 It's a campus of modern-looking buildings 140 00:09:44,618 --> 00:09:46,484 Where he develops new inventions 141 00:09:46,486 --> 00:09:51,022 And builds the world's first movie theater. 142 00:09:51,091 --> 00:09:55,226 But on December 9, 1914, 143 00:09:55,228 --> 00:09:59,497 Disaster strikes the plant. 144 00:09:59,499 --> 00:10:03,501 At 5:15 in the morning, a can of highly flammable nitrate film 145 00:10:03,503 --> 00:10:07,205 Catches fire and causes an explosion. 146 00:10:13,780 --> 00:10:16,247 In the inferno, one man is killed. 147 00:10:16,316 --> 00:10:23,288 [siren] 148 00:10:26,460 --> 00:10:31,396 This never-before-seen footage, filmed by edison himself, 149 00:10:31,398 --> 00:10:35,467 Shows the aftermath of the massive chemical fire. 150 00:10:35,535 --> 00:10:38,136 It consumes 13 buildings 151 00:10:38,204 --> 00:10:42,807 And destroys priceless prototypes and records. 152 00:10:42,876 --> 00:10:49,347 Damages run to $1.5 million, and edison is underinsured; 153 00:10:49,349 --> 00:10:52,417 Only a third of his losses are covered. 154 00:10:55,755 --> 00:10:59,691 He's saved by a good friend, henry ford, 155 00:10:59,759 --> 00:11:06,164 Who loans him $750,000 interest-free. 156 00:11:06,232 --> 00:11:09,634 Ford is a former employee of edison's. 157 00:11:09,636 --> 00:11:12,303 Their strong bond is captured on a filmed tour 158 00:11:12,372 --> 00:11:16,041 Of the newly rebuilt edison factory. 159 00:11:16,109 --> 00:11:20,111 Edison teaches ford the key role of technological research 160 00:11:20,180 --> 00:11:23,848 In achieving business success. 161 00:11:23,917 --> 00:11:28,052 They are now two of the most famous men in america. 162 00:11:28,055 --> 00:11:34,258 ♪ 163 00:11:34,261 --> 00:11:36,261 In 1915, they arrive together 164 00:11:36,329 --> 00:11:41,733 At the pan pacific exposition in san francisco, 165 00:11:41,735 --> 00:11:45,803 Where October 21st is declared edison day, 166 00:11:45,806 --> 00:11:50,408 A celebration of technology and innovation. 167 00:11:50,477 --> 00:11:54,279 Edison lays a plaque to honor his world-changing invention. 168 00:11:54,347 --> 00:11:57,749 [cheering] 169 00:11:57,751 --> 00:11:59,951 That night, the site is transformed 170 00:11:59,953 --> 00:12:04,089 Into a wonderland of electric light. 171 00:12:04,157 --> 00:12:06,558 Harvey firestone, the rubber tire mogul, 172 00:12:06,626 --> 00:12:09,561 Joins them in san francisco 173 00:12:09,629 --> 00:12:13,231 And takes edison and his wife on a chauffeured drive around town 174 00:12:13,299 --> 00:12:15,900 In his open-top touring car. 175 00:12:19,239 --> 00:12:24,609 Ford, firestone and edison are now national icons and buddies. 176 00:12:29,316 --> 00:12:31,049 For these shrewd businessmen, 177 00:12:31,117 --> 00:12:34,853 Even vacations are a marketing opportunity. 178 00:12:37,791 --> 00:12:40,725 The ford motor company films their escapades 179 00:12:40,794 --> 00:12:44,996 And releases mini movies to theaters across the country, 180 00:12:44,998 --> 00:12:49,467 Where americans can watch these legendary titans at play. 181 00:12:49,536 --> 00:12:50,468 [gunshot] 182 00:12:52,139 --> 00:12:53,304 [gunshot] 183 00:12:56,876 --> 00:13:00,078 Inspired by what they see, 184 00:13:00,146 --> 00:13:05,083 Americans take to the road to vacation like a titan. 185 00:13:09,022 --> 00:13:12,090 In 1915 the country is on the move. 186 00:13:12,158 --> 00:13:16,094 Soon most americans will live in cities. 187 00:13:16,162 --> 00:13:18,563 The middle class is growing, 188 00:13:18,631 --> 00:13:23,168 Accelerated by the wealth industrialists have created. 189 00:13:23,236 --> 00:13:27,038 The three titans, already american celebrities, 190 00:13:27,040 --> 00:13:30,575 Are about to be thrust onto the world stage. 191 00:13:37,984 --> 00:13:42,720 1915, new york, the financial heart of america, 192 00:13:42,789 --> 00:13:45,723 Now the richest nation on earth. 193 00:13:45,725 --> 00:13:47,325 [artillery fire] 194 00:13:47,327 --> 00:13:49,727 It prospers while its competitors in europe 195 00:13:49,796 --> 00:13:54,732 Are locked in the life-and-death struggles of world war I. 196 00:13:54,734 --> 00:13:59,070 America's determination to stay out of the conflict 197 00:13:59,138 --> 00:14:01,973 Is personified by henry ford. 198 00:14:05,011 --> 00:14:09,614 ♪ 199 00:14:09,682 --> 00:14:13,218 Not only is he a committed pacifist, 200 00:14:13,286 --> 00:14:15,753 But flushed with his business success, 201 00:14:15,755 --> 00:14:19,023 He believes he has the intelligence and power 202 00:14:19,025 --> 00:14:21,059 To broker peace. 203 00:14:23,229 --> 00:14:24,762 In the fall of 1915 204 00:14:24,764 --> 00:14:27,632 He embarks on a self-sponsored peace mission 205 00:14:27,700 --> 00:14:29,901 To stockholm, sweden. 206 00:14:29,903 --> 00:14:31,502 He charters a ship 207 00:14:31,504 --> 00:14:34,372 To transport a delegation of american pacifists 208 00:14:34,440 --> 00:14:37,842 And tells the press, "we are going to try to get the boys 209 00:14:37,844 --> 00:14:40,645 Out of their trenches and back to their homes 210 00:14:40,713 --> 00:14:43,047 By christmas day." 211 00:14:43,049 --> 00:14:46,317 Reporters call it the ship of fools. 212 00:14:46,319 --> 00:14:48,052 [horn blares] 213 00:14:48,054 --> 00:14:53,791 Ignored by the warring nations, it is a complete failure. 214 00:14:53,860 --> 00:15:00,665 [artillery fire and explosions] 215 00:15:00,667 --> 00:15:05,570 On April 6, 1917, america enters world war I. 216 00:15:07,740 --> 00:15:11,742 Ford may not like it, but for other would-be titans, 217 00:15:11,745 --> 00:15:14,812 The war is a golden opportunity. 218 00:15:17,951 --> 00:15:23,721 And it jump starts a new technology: Aviation. 219 00:15:25,491 --> 00:15:28,760 Young engineers like donald douglas begin building 220 00:15:28,828 --> 00:15:32,897 An industry that will soon take over america. 221 00:15:32,899 --> 00:15:35,033 Cameras film combat aircraft 222 00:15:35,101 --> 00:15:40,771 Being assembled in connecticut and washington state. 223 00:15:40,774 --> 00:15:44,042 They are powered by a revolutionary new technology-- 224 00:15:44,110 --> 00:15:50,114 The liberty engine, designed to be mass produced. 225 00:15:50,183 --> 00:15:53,451 The government tasks engine and automobile manufacturers 226 00:15:53,519 --> 00:15:57,789 To build them, including henry ford. 227 00:15:57,857 --> 00:16:02,727 In a complete u-turn, ford abandons his pacifist stand, 228 00:16:02,795 --> 00:16:04,929 And his state-of-the-art assembly lines 229 00:16:04,998 --> 00:16:07,865 Feed the war machine. 230 00:16:07,934 --> 00:16:11,135 Initially he only supplies the engines' cylinders, 231 00:16:11,137 --> 00:16:15,006 But in true ford style, he streamlines the process, 232 00:16:15,008 --> 00:16:21,012 Increasing production from 151 to 2,000 cylinders a day, 233 00:16:21,014 --> 00:16:25,283 Then delivers nearly 4,000 completed engines. 234 00:16:33,493 --> 00:16:37,962 Aviation, barely a decade old, seems very glamorous 235 00:16:37,964 --> 00:16:41,699 To rich, young men like harvey firestone, jr., 236 00:16:41,701 --> 00:16:47,438 Seen here on vacation with his tire magnate father. 237 00:16:47,507 --> 00:16:50,041 He wants to enlist as a naval aviator, 238 00:16:50,109 --> 00:16:55,713 But fails the medical test due to bad eyesight. 239 00:16:55,782 --> 00:16:58,516 The titans flex their muscles. 240 00:16:58,518 --> 00:17:00,852 Letters from henry ford and thomas edison 241 00:17:00,920 --> 00:17:03,321 Get the decision reversed. 242 00:17:05,725 --> 00:17:07,325 Harvey junior joins 243 00:17:07,393 --> 00:17:11,229 One of the most dangerous branches of the military. 244 00:17:14,667 --> 00:17:16,601 During world war I 245 00:17:16,669 --> 00:17:22,206 A third of american pilot deaths are in training. 246 00:17:22,208 --> 00:17:25,076 Airplanes are still a relatively new invention, 247 00:17:25,078 --> 00:17:29,347 And despite enthusiasm, few know how to fly to them. 248 00:17:32,952 --> 00:17:34,485 To solve the problem, 249 00:17:34,554 --> 00:17:38,889 The government turns to the top minds in industry. 250 00:17:38,892 --> 00:17:41,893 Thomas edison heads the naval consulting board, 251 00:17:41,961 --> 00:17:46,564 Seen here on the steps of the capitol. 252 00:17:46,566 --> 00:17:50,435 He helps the board devise training tools, 253 00:17:50,503 --> 00:17:54,906 Like the ruggles orientator. 254 00:17:54,974 --> 00:17:57,041 An instructor operates the machine 255 00:17:57,043 --> 00:18:02,380 As the students struggle to keep the plane level. 256 00:18:02,448 --> 00:18:05,850 It's the forerunner of a modern-day flight simulator. 257 00:18:07,787 --> 00:18:10,054 [artillery fire] 258 00:18:10,056 --> 00:18:15,593 ♪ 259 00:18:15,595 --> 00:18:18,062 Henry ford's biggest contribution 260 00:18:18,064 --> 00:18:20,865 Is an injection of model ts. 261 00:18:20,933 --> 00:18:24,735 Army green is a departure from his trademark black. 262 00:18:24,804 --> 00:18:28,873 39,000 see service in europe. 263 00:18:28,875 --> 00:18:33,010 Trucks, staff cars, and over 4,000 ambulances, 264 00:18:33,079 --> 00:18:37,548 Many driving on firestone tires. 265 00:18:37,617 --> 00:18:42,419 These 25 are heading to the front in verdun, France, 266 00:18:42,422 --> 00:18:44,822 In March 1918. 267 00:18:47,360 --> 00:18:50,962 Over a million allied soldiers benefit from ford's ambulances 268 00:18:51,030 --> 00:18:53,164 During the war. 269 00:18:53,232 --> 00:18:55,900 They move the wounded quickly and comfortably, 270 00:18:55,968 --> 00:18:59,203 Ultimately saving many lives. 271 00:19:01,974 --> 00:19:04,842 But while ford eventually embraces the war effort, 272 00:19:04,911 --> 00:19:07,478 It actually hurts his bottom line. 273 00:19:10,316 --> 00:19:12,983 His huge, ultra-efficient factories, 274 00:19:12,986 --> 00:19:15,253 Converted to military production, 275 00:19:15,321 --> 00:19:18,956 Are operating far below their civilian capacity. 276 00:19:22,328 --> 00:19:23,995 Hoping to boost profits, 277 00:19:24,063 --> 00:19:27,131 He tries his hand at building tanks. 278 00:19:27,200 --> 00:19:33,804 ♪ 279 00:19:33,873 --> 00:19:37,408 The m1918 weighs three tons 280 00:19:37,476 --> 00:19:41,479 And has a top speed of eight miles per hour. 281 00:19:41,547 --> 00:19:43,681 Ford and his son edsel watch tests 282 00:19:43,683 --> 00:19:46,284 In highland park, michigan. 283 00:19:46,352 --> 00:19:49,554 Results are mixed. 284 00:19:49,622 --> 00:19:52,857 The tank never makes it to the battlefield. 285 00:19:57,163 --> 00:20:03,100 And ford's business continues to suffer. 286 00:20:03,102 --> 00:20:05,903 Though he makes $4 million from the conflict, 287 00:20:05,905 --> 00:20:10,908 It's just half his peacetime income. 288 00:20:10,910 --> 00:20:14,578 But shrewd as ever, he keeps taking orders for his model t 289 00:20:14,581 --> 00:20:19,116 Throughout the war and accumulates a huge backlog. 290 00:20:21,921 --> 00:20:27,124 In 1919, over 800,000 cars roll off the lines, 291 00:20:27,126 --> 00:20:31,128 More than making up for lost wartime sales. 292 00:20:31,197 --> 00:20:37,201 ♪ 293 00:20:37,270 --> 00:20:42,006 With the fighting finally over, a new decade dawns. 294 00:20:42,008 --> 00:20:45,610 The titans will help drive the roaring twenties 295 00:20:45,678 --> 00:20:50,047 And change the landscape of america forever. 296 00:20:52,952 --> 00:20:57,554 [cheering] 297 00:20:57,557 --> 00:21:00,358 November 1918. 298 00:21:00,426 --> 00:21:02,026 America's industrial might 299 00:21:02,094 --> 00:21:07,031 Has helped bring the kaiser's germany to its knees. 300 00:21:07,099 --> 00:21:10,501 Celebrations fill the streets of new york. 301 00:21:10,503 --> 00:21:21,712 ♪ 302 00:21:21,781 --> 00:21:25,849 In cities across america, like detroit and los angeles, 303 00:21:25,852 --> 00:21:28,653 Life appears brighter than ever. 304 00:21:28,721 --> 00:21:31,589 Electricity, pioneered by edison, 305 00:21:31,657 --> 00:21:35,793 Now reaches one third of urban homes. 306 00:21:35,861 --> 00:21:38,863 Nearly 7 million cars crowd the roads-- 307 00:21:38,931 --> 00:21:44,268 A tenfold increase over the past eight years. 308 00:21:44,337 --> 00:21:50,808 And unemployment has fallen to a record low, just 1.4%. 309 00:21:50,876 --> 00:21:53,811 The war has changed america. 310 00:21:53,879 --> 00:21:57,414 It drew 4.7 million men and women to the military, 311 00:21:57,417 --> 00:21:59,884 Leaving many jobs unfilled. 312 00:22:02,155 --> 00:22:04,622 Over half a million african americans in the south, 313 00:22:04,690 --> 00:22:06,690 Oppressed by jim crow laws, 314 00:22:06,693 --> 00:22:12,363 Are attracted by work in the new industrial centers. 315 00:22:12,365 --> 00:22:15,699 They move north in the great migration. 316 00:22:15,702 --> 00:22:18,235 Henry ford's hometown, detroit, 317 00:22:18,237 --> 00:22:20,371 Sees the african american community swell 318 00:22:20,373 --> 00:22:24,508 From 5,000 to 40,000. 319 00:22:24,510 --> 00:22:27,678 Nearly 2,000 work for ford. 320 00:22:31,851 --> 00:22:33,517 The countryside they've left behind 321 00:22:33,586 --> 00:22:36,387 Is still largely unchanged. 322 00:22:36,389 --> 00:22:42,793 There's no electricity, horses still outnumber tractors, 323 00:22:42,795 --> 00:22:48,099 And the roads, they're mostly unmapped and unpaved. 324 00:22:53,672 --> 00:22:56,407 On July 7, 1919, 325 00:22:56,475 --> 00:23:00,277 80 military vehicles and 280 personnel 326 00:23:00,346 --> 00:23:02,546 Embark from washington, dc, 327 00:23:02,615 --> 00:23:08,486 On an epic 3,000-mile road test to san francisco. 328 00:23:08,554 --> 00:23:11,422 Harvey firestone senses an opportunity 329 00:23:11,424 --> 00:23:15,760 And invites the convoy to stop at his ohio home. 330 00:23:15,828 --> 00:23:19,630 On July 13th, the military pulls into his farm in columbiana 331 00:23:19,632 --> 00:23:21,599 For a chicken dinner. 332 00:23:24,036 --> 00:23:29,239 Both the army and firestone film the event. 333 00:23:29,242 --> 00:23:34,512 The cameras entice some of the soldiers to show off. 334 00:23:34,580 --> 00:23:37,715 But over dinner firestone devotes his time 335 00:23:37,783 --> 00:23:40,785 To showing a young soldier named dwight d. Eisenhower 336 00:23:40,853 --> 00:23:43,821 The benefits of firestone tires. 337 00:23:49,395 --> 00:23:52,663 Two vehicles equipped with his trademark pneumatic tires 338 00:23:52,731 --> 00:23:56,667 Join the convoy for the remainder of the trip. 339 00:23:56,735 --> 00:24:01,172 The army trucks use traditional, cheaper solid rubber tires. 340 00:24:04,076 --> 00:24:09,613 The convoy battles the unpaved roads of illinois... 341 00:24:09,615 --> 00:24:11,816 And nevada. 342 00:24:16,155 --> 00:24:19,356 And climbs the sierra nevada mountains... 343 00:24:24,163 --> 00:24:29,967 Before reaching the west coast 62 days later. 344 00:24:29,969 --> 00:24:32,503 Eisenhower reports that pneumatic tires 345 00:24:32,571 --> 00:24:36,106 Are practically puncture-proof, allow more speed, 346 00:24:36,108 --> 00:24:39,710 And prevent excess vibration. 347 00:24:39,712 --> 00:24:41,846 As they roll into san francisco, 348 00:24:41,914 --> 00:24:46,317 The titan reaps priceless publicity for his products. 349 00:24:46,385 --> 00:24:49,853 America's leaders embrace the car's promise. 350 00:24:49,856 --> 00:24:53,724 The government commits to improving roads... 351 00:24:53,726 --> 00:24:56,927 A policy that culminates some three decades later 352 00:24:56,929 --> 00:25:00,664 When eisenhower creates the interstate highway system. 353 00:25:05,004 --> 00:25:06,670 1920. 354 00:25:06,739 --> 00:25:08,272 With the end of the war, 355 00:25:08,274 --> 00:25:11,141 Military production slows, 356 00:25:11,143 --> 00:25:13,810 And so does the economy. 357 00:25:13,813 --> 00:25:17,814 Veterans can't find jobs. 358 00:25:17,817 --> 00:25:20,918 The nation slips into a recession. 359 00:25:23,756 --> 00:25:26,690 Henry ford is now a grandfather, 360 00:25:26,759 --> 00:25:32,296 Seen here at home with his first grandson and namesake. 361 00:25:32,364 --> 00:25:36,700 But even titans are not immune to a national crisis. 362 00:25:42,975 --> 00:25:45,842 Ambitious as ever, ford used his profits 363 00:25:45,845 --> 00:25:50,781 From his post-war back orders to expand his company. 364 00:25:50,783 --> 00:25:54,385 Over three years he invests $60 million 365 00:25:54,453 --> 00:25:57,921 Into constructing what will be a legendary plant: 366 00:25:57,924 --> 00:26:02,059 River rouge in dearborn. 367 00:26:02,127 --> 00:26:07,131 It covers 1,200 acres of riverfront. 368 00:26:07,199 --> 00:26:10,000 To win control of every stage of production, 369 00:26:10,002 --> 00:26:16,407 Ford spends another $15 million on coal and iron mines... 370 00:26:16,475 --> 00:26:22,479 And gets a $20 million bank loan to buy out his shareholders. 371 00:26:22,548 --> 00:26:25,349 But when sales drop by half in the recession, 372 00:26:25,417 --> 00:26:28,586 Ford is on the brink of bankruptcy. 373 00:26:32,758 --> 00:26:36,293 He risks everything with a gutsy move. 374 00:26:38,965 --> 00:26:42,032 He buys the key railway that delivers the supplies 375 00:26:42,101 --> 00:26:44,301 He needs to build his plant: 376 00:26:44,370 --> 00:26:48,905 The detroit, toledo and ironton line. 377 00:26:48,908 --> 00:26:52,442 He streamlines its operations to speed up deliveries, 378 00:26:52,445 --> 00:26:57,514 Enabling him to hold less inventory and cut his expenses, 379 00:26:57,516 --> 00:27:02,586 Freeing up $28 million that helps put him back in the black. 380 00:27:02,588 --> 00:27:04,788 Ford's gamble is a sharp reminder 381 00:27:04,857 --> 00:27:09,660 That even the richest men have to scramble to stay on top. 382 00:27:13,132 --> 00:27:17,668 Some of ford's detroit rivals are less nimble. 383 00:27:17,670 --> 00:27:21,605 Car manufacturer lincoln is struggling. 384 00:27:21,607 --> 00:27:25,008 Its owner, henry leland, has seen demand crash 385 00:27:25,011 --> 00:27:27,711 In the post-war recession. 386 00:27:29,749 --> 00:27:33,217 In 1922, henry ford and his son edsel, 387 00:27:33,285 --> 00:27:35,352 Now the company president, 388 00:27:35,421 --> 00:27:39,690 Capitalize on their competition's weakness 389 00:27:39,692 --> 00:27:46,163 And snap up lincoln for a bargain price of $8 million. 390 00:27:46,231 --> 00:27:51,902 Under ford, lincoln becomes a prestigious luxury brand. 391 00:27:51,904 --> 00:27:54,037 Wealthy americans splurge on a car 392 00:27:54,040 --> 00:27:58,042 That costs 10 times more than the model t. 393 00:27:58,110 --> 00:28:02,379 And soon, many can afford it. 394 00:28:02,448 --> 00:28:06,250 The 1920 recession is short-lived. 395 00:28:06,318 --> 00:28:13,257 Industry takes off again, and the twenties start to roar. 396 00:28:13,325 --> 00:28:15,325 Ready to take advantage of the new boom 397 00:28:15,327 --> 00:28:20,597 Is a new generation of titans, drawn to a new industry. 398 00:28:20,666 --> 00:28:23,133 Donald douglas is an aircraft engineer 399 00:28:23,135 --> 00:28:26,537 Who served during the first world war. 400 00:28:26,605 --> 00:28:29,473 In 1921, in santa monica, california, 401 00:28:29,475 --> 00:28:33,410 He founds the douglas aircraft company. 402 00:28:33,412 --> 00:28:35,012 His first contract: 403 00:28:35,080 --> 00:28:40,016 Six of his douglas torpedo dt bombers. 404 00:28:40,019 --> 00:28:43,554 The planes launch from america's first aircraft carrier, 405 00:28:43,622 --> 00:28:46,090 The uss langley. 406 00:28:48,227 --> 00:28:50,360 Douglas has reason to smile. 407 00:28:50,429 --> 00:28:52,562 He makes his first million on the deal, 408 00:28:52,565 --> 00:28:56,133 With an order for 38 more bombers to come. 409 00:28:59,905 --> 00:29:04,708 Back from the brink, ford once again sets his sights high. 410 00:29:07,846 --> 00:29:11,115 He famously says he put a car in every garage, 411 00:29:11,183 --> 00:29:14,084 And now wants to put a plane there, too. 412 00:29:17,523 --> 00:29:19,856 Ford, still a marketing master, 413 00:29:19,859 --> 00:29:25,429 Unveils the prototype on his 63rd birthday in 1926. 414 00:29:27,933 --> 00:29:30,200 He calls it the ford flivver 415 00:29:30,202 --> 00:29:33,604 After the popular nickname for his model t. 416 00:29:38,143 --> 00:29:39,943 The press loves it. 417 00:29:40,012 --> 00:29:44,414 One journalist writes, "I dreamed I was an angel, 418 00:29:44,416 --> 00:29:47,417 And with the angels soared. 419 00:29:47,419 --> 00:29:51,154 But I was simply touring the heavens 420 00:29:51,157 --> 00:29:54,758 In a ford." 421 00:29:54,827 --> 00:29:56,760 Though its publicity excites people, 422 00:29:56,762 --> 00:30:01,231 The plane is only a prototype, not yet available for sale. 423 00:30:03,502 --> 00:30:05,836 The flivver test pilot, harry brooks, 424 00:30:05,838 --> 00:30:08,672 Is a close friend of ford's. 425 00:30:11,710 --> 00:30:17,581 Together they work on perfecting ford's latest venture. 426 00:30:17,649 --> 00:30:22,452 During a publicity tour in 1928, brooks is killed. 427 00:30:22,521 --> 00:30:25,956 Ford cancels all work on the flivver. 428 00:30:28,927 --> 00:30:34,064 He turns his attention back to cars, where business is booming. 429 00:30:34,132 --> 00:30:37,934 In michigan, ford finally opens his river rouge plant, 430 00:30:37,937 --> 00:30:41,872 The largest coordinated factory in the world, 431 00:30:41,874 --> 00:30:45,409 Able to turn raw materials into running vehicles 432 00:30:45,477 --> 00:30:48,812 In a single complex. 433 00:30:48,881 --> 00:30:50,681 Cars need tires, 434 00:30:50,749 --> 00:30:52,883 And harvey firestone's ohio plant 435 00:30:52,951 --> 00:30:56,286 Now employs 10,000 people. 436 00:30:59,825 --> 00:31:04,361 Akron, ohio, sees a 200% increase in population. 437 00:31:04,363 --> 00:31:07,764 Suddenly there are more people than houses. 438 00:31:12,171 --> 00:31:17,507 Firestone decides to build a community for his workforce. 439 00:31:17,509 --> 00:31:20,711 The tire king bankrolls firestone park. 440 00:31:20,779 --> 00:31:27,517 Started in 1916, construction continues through the 1920s. 441 00:31:27,519 --> 00:31:29,252 On 1,000 acres of land 442 00:31:29,255 --> 00:31:32,322 He builds not just houses, 443 00:31:32,324 --> 00:31:34,458 But schools, a church, 444 00:31:34,526 --> 00:31:36,860 And even a ymca. 445 00:31:39,531 --> 00:31:41,531 The company spends nearly $3 million 446 00:31:41,600 --> 00:31:45,802 On facilities for its employees. 447 00:31:45,871 --> 00:31:51,141 Firestone expects his investment will pay off 448 00:31:51,209 --> 00:31:55,779 In loyalty, compliance, and hard work. 449 00:31:58,617 --> 00:32:01,885 The three titans, including an aging edison, 450 00:32:01,887 --> 00:32:04,888 Are filmed here at the end of the boom decade. 451 00:32:04,890 --> 00:32:07,290 They're confident in the state of the nation 452 00:32:07,293 --> 00:32:09,626 And the opportunities that lie ahead. 453 00:32:34,453 --> 00:32:37,254 Narrator: America's economic rise during the 1920's 454 00:32:37,322 --> 00:32:38,855 Appears limitless. 455 00:32:38,857 --> 00:32:41,658 There are now 30,000 millionaires in the country. 456 00:32:43,929 --> 00:32:50,500 But by 1931, 25,000 of them will have lost everything. 457 00:32:55,207 --> 00:32:56,873 Fort myers, florida. 458 00:32:56,942 --> 00:33:01,144 February 11, 1931. 459 00:33:01,213 --> 00:33:05,615 It's thomas edison's 84th birthday. 460 00:33:05,617 --> 00:33:08,085 A newsreel captures harvey firestone 461 00:33:08,153 --> 00:33:10,420 Asking his hearing-impaired idol 462 00:33:10,489 --> 00:33:12,422 About the latest technological breakthrough 463 00:33:12,491 --> 00:33:14,157 In the movie industry. 464 00:33:14,226 --> 00:33:17,027 Firestone: What do you think to the sound pictures of today? 465 00:33:17,095 --> 00:33:20,297 Edison: What do I think of the talking picture? 466 00:33:20,365 --> 00:33:21,698 Firestone: Yeah. 467 00:33:21,700 --> 00:33:23,900 Edison: Uh... 468 00:33:23,902 --> 00:33:27,971 Well, I don't know, I never heard one. 469 00:33:27,973 --> 00:33:31,307 [laughter] 470 00:33:31,310 --> 00:33:32,709 Narrator: Eight months later, 471 00:33:32,711 --> 00:33:34,978 Stricken by complications from diabetes, 472 00:33:35,047 --> 00:33:39,116 Edison dies in his new jersey home. 473 00:33:39,184 --> 00:33:40,784 Americans mourn the genius 474 00:33:40,852 --> 00:33:45,589 Who gave them light bulbs, movies and the phonograph. 475 00:33:50,062 --> 00:33:52,529 On October 22, 1931, 476 00:33:52,531 --> 00:33:55,532 Thousands line the streets of west orange 477 00:33:55,534 --> 00:33:58,335 For his funeral procession. 478 00:34:00,605 --> 00:34:03,807 Edison's dream of sending light, power and heat 479 00:34:03,875 --> 00:34:06,209 To every household through a wire 480 00:34:06,211 --> 00:34:10,614 Is almost fully realized. 481 00:34:10,682 --> 00:34:15,685 85% of america's urban homes now have electricity. 482 00:34:15,754 --> 00:34:23,560 ♪ 483 00:34:23,562 --> 00:34:29,566 Edison's death coincides with a collapse in america's fortunes. 484 00:34:29,568 --> 00:34:33,070 The country is in the grip of the great depression. 485 00:34:35,307 --> 00:34:39,376 In 1932, 12 million people are unemployed, 486 00:34:39,444 --> 00:34:42,312 Nearly a quarter of the workforce. 487 00:34:45,584 --> 00:34:48,151 Even the newly rich have been battered. 488 00:34:50,989 --> 00:34:56,059 The number of millionaires has dropped to 5,000. 489 00:34:56,128 --> 00:35:01,998 The depression is the key issue in the 1932 presidential race. 490 00:35:02,067 --> 00:35:05,001 Henry ford backs the incumbent, herbert hoover, 491 00:35:05,070 --> 00:35:07,937 And makes a rare speech in support. 492 00:35:07,940 --> 00:35:10,941 Ford: It is only common sense to let him finish his job. 493 00:35:11,009 --> 00:35:14,144 I think of him as a human-hearted, 494 00:35:14,146 --> 00:35:18,949 Honest-minded, hardworking hoover. 495 00:35:19,017 --> 00:35:21,885 Narrator: Hoover's opponent, franklin d. Roosevelt, 496 00:35:21,887 --> 00:35:26,156 Believes that only he can lead the nation back to prosperity. 497 00:35:26,224 --> 00:35:28,491 Franklin roosevelt: The masses of the people of the nation 498 00:35:28,494 --> 00:35:32,495 Firmly believe that there is great and actual possibility 499 00:35:32,498 --> 00:35:36,166 In an orderly recovery through a well-conceived 500 00:35:36,168 --> 00:35:38,969 And actively directed plan of action. 501 00:35:39,037 --> 00:35:41,771 Narrator: His landslide victory marks a change 502 00:35:41,840 --> 00:35:44,074 For american industry. 503 00:35:46,111 --> 00:35:49,312 One titan who's weathering the great depression well 504 00:35:49,314 --> 00:35:52,649 Is harvey firestone. 505 00:35:52,651 --> 00:35:57,320 In columbiana, ohio, he still runs his father's farm. 506 00:35:57,322 --> 00:36:01,925 Now he sees opportunity in the struggles farmers face. 507 00:36:01,993 --> 00:36:06,663 Tractors are a vital piece of machinery. 508 00:36:06,731 --> 00:36:07,998 But they're traditionally equipped 509 00:36:08,066 --> 00:36:11,401 With solid steel wheels. 510 00:36:11,469 --> 00:36:13,670 They can cut through muddy fields 511 00:36:13,672 --> 00:36:16,740 But are slow and expensive to run. 512 00:36:16,808 --> 00:36:18,608 In typical titan style, 513 00:36:18,677 --> 00:36:23,013 Firestone puts his new rubber tractor tires on camera. 514 00:36:26,885 --> 00:36:30,420 The new treads can grip mud, increase speed, 515 00:36:30,422 --> 00:36:33,423 And reduce fuel consumption. 516 00:36:33,425 --> 00:36:37,827 The result: Higher productivity at lower costs. 517 00:36:37,829 --> 00:36:41,431 A boon to struggling farmers. 518 00:36:41,433 --> 00:36:43,233 To market his new products, 519 00:36:43,235 --> 00:36:48,705 Firestone conceives a brilliant publicity stunt... 520 00:36:48,773 --> 00:36:53,710 To break the land speed record using a tractor. 521 00:36:53,778 --> 00:36:58,648 This film from 1935 captures top racing driver ab jenkins 522 00:36:58,717 --> 00:37:03,319 At the bonneville salt flats in utah. 523 00:37:03,322 --> 00:37:05,054 "the ride," says jenkins, 524 00:37:05,057 --> 00:37:08,191 "is like being atop of a frightened bison." 525 00:37:08,193 --> 00:37:14,264 ♪ 526 00:37:14,266 --> 00:37:17,400 He achieves a speed of 68 miles per hour, 527 00:37:17,402 --> 00:37:20,070 Faster than any tractor's gone before. 528 00:37:20,138 --> 00:37:23,540 A record that stands for 80 years. 529 00:37:23,608 --> 00:37:26,542 Sales of firestone tires soar. 530 00:37:26,545 --> 00:37:27,944 By the end of the decade 531 00:37:27,946 --> 00:37:32,349 Nearly all tractors run on rubber tires. 532 00:37:32,417 --> 00:37:36,953 But firestone's success is an exception. 533 00:37:37,022 --> 00:37:43,026 In 1935, industrial unemployment remains in a critical state. 534 00:37:43,094 --> 00:37:47,163 In ford's detroit, half the labor force is unemployed. 535 00:37:47,165 --> 00:37:51,368 Over 50,000 are laid off from river rouge alone. 536 00:37:51,436 --> 00:37:53,103 Those who do keep their jobs 537 00:37:53,171 --> 00:37:56,239 Suffer cuts in working hours and pay. 538 00:37:56,308 --> 00:37:57,974 [applause] 539 00:37:57,976 --> 00:38:02,111 Roosevelt doesn't wait for the titans to solve the crisis. 540 00:38:02,114 --> 00:38:05,448 Roosevelt: It is the immediate task of industry 541 00:38:05,450 --> 00:38:11,721 To re-employ more people at purchasing wages 542 00:38:11,723 --> 00:38:14,390 And to do it now. 543 00:38:14,393 --> 00:38:17,394 Narrator: Rather than expect business to recover on its own, 544 00:38:17,462 --> 00:38:19,129 He launches a great experiment 545 00:38:19,197 --> 00:38:24,467 With the national recovery administration, the nra. 546 00:38:24,536 --> 00:38:27,337 The government now regulates hours and wages, 547 00:38:27,339 --> 00:38:32,141 Breaking with the traditions of free enterprise. 548 00:38:32,144 --> 00:38:37,147 And companies are no longer permitted to compete on price. 549 00:38:37,215 --> 00:38:43,153 Henry ford denounces the nra as un-american. 550 00:38:43,221 --> 00:38:46,089 The 72-year-old titan is now a recluse. 551 00:38:46,157 --> 00:38:48,891 Employees remember him climbing out of his office window 552 00:38:48,894 --> 00:38:51,961 To avoid visitors. 553 00:38:52,030 --> 00:38:54,698 The celebrity automaker is hounded by the press 554 00:38:54,766 --> 00:38:56,833 At his dearborn family estate. 555 00:38:56,901 --> 00:38:58,101 Man: I'm from the associated press, 556 00:38:58,169 --> 00:38:59,902 I'd like to get in there to see mr. Ford. 557 00:38:59,905 --> 00:39:02,839 Man: I'm from the united press, I want to get down there, too. 558 00:39:02,841 --> 00:39:06,976 Man: I don't care where you're from, you can't get in here. 559 00:39:06,978 --> 00:39:08,578 Narrator: In 1935, 560 00:39:08,580 --> 00:39:10,847 The supreme court vindicates ford 561 00:39:10,849 --> 00:39:13,516 And strikes down the nra. 562 00:39:15,653 --> 00:39:20,457 Undeterred, in the same year fdr pushes through the wagner act, 563 00:39:20,525 --> 00:39:24,327 Recognizing the rights of workers to organize unions. 564 00:39:24,329 --> 00:39:28,932 It's the biggest labor win in u.S. History. 565 00:39:29,000 --> 00:39:32,001 Despite his reputation as a friend to his workers, 566 00:39:32,003 --> 00:39:33,870 Harvey firestone is one of the first 567 00:39:33,938 --> 00:39:37,073 To feel the new power of the unions. 568 00:39:37,075 --> 00:39:41,945 In akron, in early 1936, rubber workers strike. 569 00:39:44,616 --> 00:39:49,352 This never-before-seen footage captures strikers in 1937 570 00:39:49,421 --> 00:39:52,589 Gathering outside the firestone factory. 571 00:39:55,560 --> 00:39:59,295 It is believed to be secret surveillance by company police. 572 00:39:59,297 --> 00:40:02,031 The strike ends when firestone concedes 573 00:40:02,033 --> 00:40:06,436 To allow workers freedom to join unions. 574 00:40:06,438 --> 00:40:09,372 Henry ford hates unions. 575 00:40:09,374 --> 00:40:12,708 He's shrewd enough to never be caught saying so on camera, 576 00:40:12,711 --> 00:40:15,311 But back in 1916, he said, 577 00:40:15,313 --> 00:40:20,784 "unions mean class war, and I hate war." 578 00:40:23,455 --> 00:40:26,522 In 1935, the united automobile workers union 579 00:40:26,525 --> 00:40:29,592 Is formed in detroit. 580 00:40:29,594 --> 00:40:32,862 And a year later, the uaw flexes its muscles 581 00:40:32,864 --> 00:40:37,066 When it takes on general motors. 582 00:40:37,135 --> 00:40:40,603 Alfred p. Sloan runs gm. 583 00:40:40,605 --> 00:40:43,740 It surpassed ford as the nation's largest car company 584 00:40:43,808 --> 00:40:46,943 Back in 1931. 585 00:40:46,945 --> 00:40:50,279 Sloan and ford are kindred spirits. 586 00:40:50,282 --> 00:40:53,282 He believes the new deal will harm big business 587 00:40:53,285 --> 00:40:56,052 And is ready to fight the unions. 588 00:40:59,290 --> 00:41:02,091 On December 30, 1936, 589 00:41:02,093 --> 00:41:06,095 Uaw-affiliated workers at gm's plant in flint, michigan, 590 00:41:06,097 --> 00:41:08,565 Deploy a new tactic... 591 00:41:08,633 --> 00:41:10,366 The sit-down strike. 592 00:41:10,368 --> 00:41:14,170 ♪ solidarity forever ♪ 593 00:41:14,239 --> 00:41:19,375 ♪ for the union makes us strong ♪ 594 00:41:19,377 --> 00:41:21,377 Narrator: The men occupy the factory floor 595 00:41:21,379 --> 00:41:26,849 And lock the doors to keep strike breakers out. 596 00:41:26,852 --> 00:41:28,985 Numerous attempts by police to break through 597 00:41:29,053 --> 00:41:32,689 Using tear gas and bullets fail. 598 00:41:35,727 --> 00:41:38,861 The strike lasts 44 days. 599 00:41:38,864 --> 00:41:43,065 And the union wins. 600 00:41:43,068 --> 00:41:45,735 On February 11, 1937, 601 00:41:45,803 --> 00:41:49,739 Sloan announces a 5% wage increase 602 00:41:49,807 --> 00:41:55,678 And plans to introduce safety measures on the assembly line. 603 00:41:55,747 --> 00:42:00,083 A titan of industry has caved to the masses. 604 00:42:00,151 --> 00:42:04,020 But henry ford still holds out. 605 00:42:06,291 --> 00:42:08,157 During the 1930s, 606 00:42:08,159 --> 00:42:12,028 President roosevelt tries to reshape american industry, 607 00:42:12,096 --> 00:42:17,133 Transferring power from titans to workers by empowering unions. 608 00:42:20,705 --> 00:42:25,475 But henry ford refuses to permit unions in his factories. 609 00:42:27,379 --> 00:42:30,380 On may 26, 1937, 610 00:42:30,448 --> 00:42:32,848 The united automobile workers picket henry ford's 611 00:42:32,851 --> 00:42:36,319 Vast river rouge plant in dearborn, michigan. 612 00:42:41,726 --> 00:42:44,994 Ford unleashes his notorious security team 613 00:42:44,996 --> 00:42:47,730 Against the union members. 614 00:42:47,799 --> 00:42:50,466 The detroit news photographs uaw leaders 615 00:42:50,535 --> 00:42:53,202 Walter reuther and richard frankensteen 616 00:42:53,271 --> 00:42:56,405 After the battle. 617 00:42:56,408 --> 00:43:00,476 Ford now stands alone. 618 00:43:00,545 --> 00:43:04,814 His friend harvey firestone dies in February 1938. 619 00:43:07,485 --> 00:43:11,087 Two months later, fdr invites ford to the white house 620 00:43:11,155 --> 00:43:14,557 To settle their differences. 621 00:43:14,626 --> 00:43:16,492 Cameras capture the industrialist 622 00:43:16,494 --> 00:43:19,762 Leaving his meeting with the president. 623 00:43:19,764 --> 00:43:22,298 Their conversation was never documented, 624 00:43:22,300 --> 00:43:24,500 But the two men still don't see eye to eye 625 00:43:24,502 --> 00:43:27,937 On government intervention in industry. 626 00:43:32,043 --> 00:43:37,513 Ford won't recognize the unions until 1941. 627 00:43:37,515 --> 00:43:39,649 [artillery fire] 628 00:43:39,651 --> 00:43:45,187 The same year that america enters world war ii. 629 00:43:45,190 --> 00:43:47,990 For the second time in his life, ford finds himself 630 00:43:47,993 --> 00:43:51,227 On the front line of military production. 631 00:43:53,865 --> 00:43:57,667 But he's no longer the boss of ford motor company. 632 00:43:57,735 --> 00:43:59,936 It's his son edsel who begins construction 633 00:44:00,004 --> 00:44:03,472 Of the mile-long aircraft plant willow run 634 00:44:03,475 --> 00:44:07,176 Designed to be the biggest factory in the world. 635 00:44:11,149 --> 00:44:16,485 But in 1943, edsel ford dies of stomach cancer. 636 00:44:16,488 --> 00:44:18,821 Henry, now 80, 637 00:44:18,823 --> 00:44:23,826 Returns to lead the company-- a controversial move. 638 00:44:23,895 --> 00:44:29,965 A frail octogenarian is running a cornerstone of the war effort. 639 00:44:29,968 --> 00:44:33,436 The company begins to lose $10 million a month, 640 00:44:33,504 --> 00:44:37,774 Which fdr calls a threat to national security. 641 00:44:37,842 --> 00:44:40,176 He considers a full government takeover 642 00:44:40,244 --> 00:44:43,646 Of his old foe's business. 643 00:44:43,648 --> 00:44:49,051 Eventually fdr pulls henry's eldest grandson, henry ford ii, 644 00:44:49,054 --> 00:44:51,387 Out of the military 645 00:44:51,389 --> 00:44:55,992 To ensure the ford company delivers for the nation. 646 00:44:56,060 --> 00:45:08,337 ♪ 647 00:45:08,339 --> 00:45:12,074 By 1944, willow run is one of the most vital cogs 648 00:45:12,077 --> 00:45:14,010 In the war machine. 649 00:45:16,748 --> 00:45:19,482 A shiny, new b-24 liberator bomber 650 00:45:19,484 --> 00:45:21,150 Rolls off the production line 651 00:45:21,152 --> 00:45:26,355 Every hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 652 00:45:28,559 --> 00:45:30,426 The ford motor company is not alone 653 00:45:30,495 --> 00:45:35,231 In assembling fdr's "arsenal of democracy." 654 00:45:35,299 --> 00:45:39,368 By v-j day, america is a global superpower, 655 00:45:39,370 --> 00:45:42,939 Drawing strength from its industrial might. 656 00:45:45,910 --> 00:45:52,114 Manufacturers have constructed more than 3 million vehicles... 657 00:45:52,117 --> 00:45:57,453 Nearly 7,000 warships... 658 00:45:57,522 --> 00:46:02,592 And 300,000 planes. 659 00:46:02,660 --> 00:46:05,795 Aviation has eclipsed automobiles 660 00:46:05,797 --> 00:46:10,199 As america's largest industry. 661 00:46:10,201 --> 00:46:11,667 20 years after he was filmed 662 00:46:11,736 --> 00:46:14,069 Sitting on his grandfather's knee, 663 00:46:14,072 --> 00:46:18,274 Henry ford ii takes over as president of the company. 664 00:46:18,342 --> 00:46:22,611 He leads it to become the second largest carmaker in the world. 665 00:46:22,614 --> 00:46:25,915 But the days of the great titans are over. 666 00:46:27,485 --> 00:46:33,422 In April 1947, at age 83, henry ford dies. 667 00:46:33,491 --> 00:46:35,158 The trailblazer doesn't live 668 00:46:35,226 --> 00:46:40,963 To see his youngest grandson's marriage two months later. 669 00:46:40,965 --> 00:46:42,364 Reporter: William ford the groom 670 00:46:42,367 --> 00:46:44,634 Is attended by his best man and ushers. 671 00:46:44,702 --> 00:46:47,102 A crowd of neighbors is on hand to admire the bride, 672 00:46:47,105 --> 00:46:50,640 Miss martha firestone, and her breathtaking wedding gown 673 00:46:50,708 --> 00:46:54,110 Of rare antique rose point and duchess lace over silk 674 00:46:54,178 --> 00:46:56,512 And its long train. 675 00:46:56,514 --> 00:46:58,981 Narrator: The industrial dynasties are joined 676 00:46:59,050 --> 00:47:01,717 When in akron, william ford marries 677 00:47:01,786 --> 00:47:06,722 Harvey firestone's granddaughter martha. 678 00:47:06,791 --> 00:47:09,124 The crowds and news coverage are a testimony 679 00:47:09,127 --> 00:47:13,229 To the titans' enduring mastery of the art of celebrity. 680 00:47:18,669 --> 00:47:22,405 The three titans have helped transform the united states 681 00:47:22,473 --> 00:47:28,210 Into a behemoth, the most dominant economy in history. 682 00:47:28,213 --> 00:47:31,280 Like the giants of silicon valley today, 683 00:47:31,282 --> 00:47:33,282 Their insatiable drive to innovate 684 00:47:33,351 --> 00:47:38,621 Earned them fame and seemingly boundless success. 685 00:47:38,689 --> 00:47:43,225 The industries they created fueled the rise of great cities, 686 00:47:43,228 --> 00:47:45,361 Though some were fated to decline 687 00:47:45,363 --> 00:47:47,830 And become the rust belt. 688 00:47:47,832 --> 00:47:50,366 The titans' immense contributions 689 00:47:50,434 --> 00:47:53,836 And their legendary stories live on 690 00:47:53,838 --> 00:47:57,773 As emblems of the enduring american dream. 59989

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