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Today it's a symbol of strength and vitality. 135 years ago, it was a source of controversy. This documentary examines the great problems and ingenious solutions that marked the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. From conception to construction, it traces the bridge's transformation from a spectacular feat of heroic engineering to an honored symbol in American culture.

Watch • 3:29
Brooklyn Bridge
Construction of the Brooklyn Bridge
Construction of the bridge consists of two granite towers and a series of steel cables.
Clip: S1 | 3:29
Watch • 5:09
Brooklyn Bridge
A Source of Inspiration
The Brooklyn Bridge has developed into an object of cultural significance.
Clip: S1 | 5:09
Watch • 2:08
Brooklyn Bridge
A New York City Icon
Since its opening over 130 years ago, the bridge has become an icon of New York City.
Clip: S1 | 2:08
Funding Provided by: General Motors; The Corporation for Public Broadcasting; New York Council for the Humanities; NEH; Citibank, N.A.; Abraham & Strauss; American Society of Civil Engineers; NY Telephone; Consolidated Edison; NY State Council for the Arts; Brooklyn Union Gas; Kings County Democratic Committee; Constans-Culver Foundation; New York Dock Railway; and W.R. Grace & Co.
Episodes
Watch • 58:58
Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge
Trace the bridge's transformation from a feat of heroic engineering to an honored symbol.
Episode: S1 E1 | 58:58
Extras
Watch • 0:48
Brooklyn Bridge
Paul Goldberg Discusses the Brooklyn Bridge
The bridge is the archetypal monument.
Clip: S1 | 0:48
Watch • 0:59
Brooklyn Bridge
A Community Of Builders
David McCullough talks about the Brooklyn Bridge.
Clip: S1 | 0:59