The Century: America's Time — Season 1, Episode 8: 1946-1952: Best Years

Episode synopsis

Demobilization after World War II meant difficult changes as the U.S., geared up for war, resumed a peacetime existence. This program describes America’s new status as a superpower, as the nation shouldered the responsibility for rebuilding Europe and Japan – and for containing Soviet ambitions. The challenge faced by veterans and spouses to become reacquainted after years of separation and hardship is highlighted.

About The Century: America's Time

The Century: America's Time is a 15-part series of documentaries produced by the American Broadcasting Company on the 20th century and the rise of the United States as a superpower. The documentary originally aired on The History Channel in 1999. Another earlier series, simply called "The Century" also produced by ABC, appeared on the ABC network in 1999, and also later appeared on the History Channel. It consists of six two-hour shows with each chronicling two different events based around a common theme.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1The Beginning: Seeds of Change
• E21914-1919: Shell Shock
• E31920-1929: Boom to Bust
• E41929-1936: Stormy Weather
• E51936-1941: Over the Edge
• E61941-1945: Civilians at War (2 parts)
• E71941-1945: Homefront
• E91953-1960: Happy Days
• E101960-1964: Poisoned Dreams
• E111965-1970: Unpinned
• E121971-1975: Approaching the Apocalypse
• E131976-1980: Starting Over