Film Lens
The documentary focuses on the Tennessee Valley, where the Holston and French Broad rivers converge to form the Tennessee River. It discusses the challenges faced by the region, including poverty and soil erosion, which lead to the abandonment of farms. President Roosevelt's establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) aimed to address these issues and improve the economic and social conditions for the residents.
The film details the construction efforts of the TVA, including the building of dams and the introduction of electric power to the area. It shows the use of electric appliances to alleviate burdens and stimulate employment, showcasing the transformation of daily life in the valley. The TVA's initiatives are presented as a model for similar advancements across the country.
Why Watch
- •See how the TVA transformed the Tennessee Valley.
- •Find out about the impact of soil erosion on farming.
- •Meet the challenges of poverty in rural America.
Did You Know
•The Tennessee River is 652 miles long from Knoxville, Tennessee to Paducah, Kentucky.
•The Tennessee Watershed covers 40,600 square miles across seven states.
•Rainfall in the Tennessee Valley ranges from 50 to 80 inches per year.
•Soil erosion is a principal reason for farm abandonment in the region.
Perfect For
Environmental issuesAmerican historyEconomic development