1 00:00:01,544 --> 00:00:03,711 Narrator: This is the story of america, 2 00:00:03,787 --> 00:00:06,955 Seen in color for the first time. 3 00:00:06,966 --> 00:00:09,124 At the turn of the 20th century, 4 00:00:09,135 --> 00:00:12,553 29 million americans are working. 5 00:00:12,629 --> 00:00:16,548 40 percent of them are farmers. 6 00:00:16,559 --> 00:00:19,476 But factories are expanding as never before. 7 00:00:22,639 --> 00:00:27,735 As labor and management clash, politicians make promises. 8 00:00:27,811 --> 00:00:30,145 Calvin coolidge: I want the people of america 9 00:00:30,156 --> 00:00:33,231 To be able to work less for the government 10 00:00:33,242 --> 00:00:35,325 And more for themselves. 11 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. 15 00:00:50,250 --> 00:00:51,925 By the 1950s, 16 00:00:52,002 --> 00:00:55,170 Americans have the world's highest standard of living. 17 00:00:55,181 --> 00:00:59,266 This is the story of the workers who made america, 18 00:00:59,343 --> 00:01:01,760 As you've never seen them before. 19 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... 21 00:01:16,118 --> 00:01:25,042 ♪ 22 00:01:25,119 --> 00:01:29,213 ♪ 23 00:01:29,289 --> 00:01:31,799 At the turn of the 20th century, 24 00:01:31,875 --> 00:01:34,885 This is what a modern factory looked like. 25 00:01:34,962 --> 00:01:39,056 ♪ 26 00:01:39,133 --> 00:01:43,393 This incredibly rare moving footage was taken in 1904. 27 00:01:43,470 --> 00:01:49,307 ♪ 28 00:01:49,318 --> 00:01:51,560 Industrialist george westinghouse 29 00:01:51,570 --> 00:01:53,895 Had this two-million-square-foot plant 30 00:01:53,906 --> 00:01:57,649 Built to his specifications. 31 00:01:57,660 --> 00:01:59,067 The product? 32 00:01:59,078 --> 00:02:01,903 Huge generators to produce the electricity 33 00:02:01,914 --> 00:02:05,499 That will make america an industrial superpower. 34 00:02:05,576 --> 00:02:10,921 ♪ 35 00:02:10,998 --> 00:02:14,916 A camera mounted on a 50-ton crane tracks activity 36 00:02:14,927 --> 00:02:18,262 Along a 600-yard-long machine shop floor. 37 00:02:21,091 --> 00:02:24,009 10,000 people work in the plant... 38 00:02:24,019 --> 00:02:28,856 ♪ 39 00:02:28,932 --> 00:02:31,483 ...Including 650 women. 40 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. 42 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. 44 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, 59 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 66 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. 79 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, 90 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 95 00:06:13,916 --> 00:06:15,657 Of any wrongdoing, 96 00:06:15,667 --> 00:06:17,909 Though they are ordered to pay compensation 97 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, 106 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 113 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-- 119 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. 122 00:07:49,920 --> 00:07:52,679 Pears soap in new jersey hires the duo 123 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 Atandt 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 atandt 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 and 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 yandr'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 and 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.