Philadelphia: The Great Experiment — Season 1, Episode 14: Breakthrough (1978-1994)

Episode synopsis

In the aftermath of devastating job losses, Philadelphians reinvent their city. Long-oppressed African-Americans rise to political power, skyscrapers break a long-held "gentlemen's agreement," and neighborhood kids find their artistic voice on crumbling factory walls. But when police engage a radical group in a disastrous confrontation, the city's fragile social compact teeters on the brink of collapse.

About Philadelphia: The Great Experiment

A 14-part documentary series covering the history of Philadelphia, William Penn's great utopian experiment, from founding to today.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1Fever (1793-1820)
• E2In Penn's Shadow (1680-1720)
• E3Franklin's Spark (1720-1765)
• E4The Storm (1765-1790)
• E5Fever (1793-1820)
• E6Disorder (1820-1854)
• E7An Equal Chance (1855-1871)
• E8The Floodgates Open
• E9World Stage (1872-1899)
• E10Awakening (1900-1920)
• E11Corrupt (1920-1940)
• E12Promise for a Better City (1944-1964)