The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one of America's fastest-growing religions and, relative to its size, one of the richest. Church membership, now at over 12 million and growing, sweeps the globe. But from the moment of its founding in 1830, the church has been controversial. Within a month, it had 40 converts and almost as many enemies. In the early years, Mormons were hated, ridiculed, persecuted and feared. Yet in the past several decades, the Mormon church has transformed itself from a fringe sect into a thriving religion that embraces mainstream American values; its members include prominent and powerful politicians, university presidents and corporate leaders

The Brooklyn Bridge was not only a landmark, but also the first bridge of its kind. No one had ever used steel for construction, nor used cables of metal, nor built a suspension bridge so long. Until one man dared to try. In 19th century New York, where buildings were no more than five stories tall, engineer John Roebling’s soaring and majestic Brooklyn Bridge was nothing short of a technological miracle. But Roebling's innovation led to an uphill battle against the elements, corrupt politicians, and scientists who claimed the first strong wind would collapse the bridge to rubble. The History Channel™ presents the thrilling and comprehensive story of ''the eighth wonder of the world.'' Witness moving firsthand accounts, interviews with experts, and extensive footage that explores the many trials and disasters that plagued Roebling's masterpiece — and ultimately cost him his life

The Capitol in Washington, DC., is one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. Its splendid dome stands as a symbol of American democracy and self-government

Describes the White House through the years and the changes made by its different inhabitants

Uses easy-to-read text to introduce the White House as an American symbol

The Spanish American War: Birth of a superpower offers a revealing inquiry into the conflict that sparket the power of the press and thrust America onto the world stage

The Joy Luck Club tells the uplifting story of four remarkable friends whose extraordinary lives are filled with joy and heartbreak

The best-selling novel is now one of the most acclaimed movies of the year. As young boys, Amir and Hassan were inseparable friends, until one fateful act tore them apart. Years later, Amir will embark on a dangerous quest to right the wrongs of the past - and redeem himself in ways he never expected - by displaying the ultimate in courage and revotion to his friend

Their 50-year friendship was driven by a common passion to win equal rights for women. Now filmmakers Ken Burns and Paul Barnes chronicle the lives of 19th-century social reformers Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, who spearheaded the suffragette movement and whose work continues to affect American society

The Contender is a 2000 political thriller starring Gary Oldman, Joan Allen, Jeff Bridges and Christian Slater. The film was directed by Rod Lurie and focuses on a fictional United States President (played by Bridges) and the events surrounding his appointment of a new Vice President (Allen)