Access to this video is a benefit for members through
Up Next
Back to Show
Watch Preview
The War
When Things Get Tough
Season 1
Episode 2
Americans mobilize for total war at home and overseas. Factories hum around the clock, while North Africa and then Italy, inexperienced GIs learn how to fight. Meanwhile, in the skies over Europe, thousands of American airmen gamble their lives against preposterous odds on daylight bombing missions.
Support Provided By
Season
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:27:49
President Johnson escalates the war while promising the public that victory is in sight.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:07:27
Germany and the Japanese surrender too and millions try to learn to live without war.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:59:26
By mid March, 1945, they are across the Rhine, while Russians are 50 miles from Berlin.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:06:58
Victory in Europe seems imminent.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:19:15
On D-Day, 1.5 million Allied troops take part in the greatest invasion in history.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:52:42
Americans are shocked by losses on the Pacific and Allied forces are stalled.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:24:51
The lives of Americans are changed forever on Dec. 7, 1941.