In this three-night documentary series, Ken Burns and Lynn Novick chronicle Progressive-era America’s “Noble Experiment”—the federal ban on alcohol, which lasted from 1920 through 1933. Part 1 traces the temperance movement’s roots in religious fervor. Part 2 examines enforcement challenges and unintended consequences, including violent crime and increased drinking by women. Part 3 shows how the law eroded social mores by turning millions of citizens into outlaws, thus feeding the disillusionment that led to repeal. Sunday–Tuesday, Oct. 2–4, at 8 p.m., PBS; check local listings
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
Quiz of The Week: 24 – 30 JanuaryQuiz Have you been paying attention to The Week’s news?
-
The Week Unwrapped: Why is China clearing out its generals?Podcast Plus, can the Conservatives win back the centre? And what’s gone wrong with Britain’s hearing aids?
-
The week’s best photosIn Pictures A Viking festival, an inky fingerprint, and more
