
The American Bald Eagle Preview
Preview: Episode 6 | 31sVideo has Closed Captions
The story of how the Bald Eagle soared to its vaunted perch in American iconography.
The story of how the American Bald Eagle soared to its vaunted perch in American iconography, a symbol not only of patriotism but also of environmental activism and Native American traditions.
Iconic America: Our Symbols and Stories with David Rubenstein is a production of Show of Force, DMR Productions, and WETA Washington, D.C. David M. Rubenstein is the host and executive...

The American Bald Eagle Preview
Preview: Episode 6 | 31sVideo has Closed Captions
The story of how the American Bald Eagle soared to its vaunted perch in American iconography, a symbol not only of patriotism but also of environmental activism and Native American traditions.
How to Watch Iconic America
Iconic America is available to stream on pbs.org and the free PBS App, available on iPhone, Apple TV, Android TV, Android smartphones, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Tablet, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, and Vizio.
Buy Now

Our Symbols and Stories
David Rubenstein examines the history of America through some of its most iconic symbols, objects and places, in conversation with historical thinkers, community members and other experts. Together, they dive deep into each symbol’s history, using them as a gateway to understanding America’s past and present.Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorshipOn iconic America.
This is the symbol of America.
It is a symbol of freedom.
It is a symbol of liberty.
For us, the eagle is more than just a symbol.
It's a relative.
They're part of our life here.
One time in America, the bald eagle was treated like a nuisance species.
Look at that bald eagle right there.
What does it say about a nation who allows their national symbol to go extinct?
The Bald Eagle Appears in the First Great Seal of the U.S.
Video has Closed Captions
Why did the Founding Fathers decide to use the bald eagle in the Great Seal of the U.S.? (1m 49s)
Bald Eagles Gather in the Pristine Alaskan Ecosystem
Video has Closed Captions
The greatest bald eagle migration on Earth happens in the Alaskan village of Haines. (4m 55s)
Video has Closed Captions
The effect of DDT on the Bald Eagle population in the northeastern U.S. was devastating. (31s)
The Infamous Bird's 1000 Pound Nest
Video has Closed Captions
This clip features a Bald Eagle's nest that is estimated to weigh around 1000 pounds. (45s)
Restoring and Hacking Bald Eagles in NY
Video has Closed Captions
David talks to Peter Nye, the biologist who saved the bald eagle population in New York. (3m 52s)
Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorshipIconic America: Our Symbols and Stories with David Rubenstein is a production of Show of Force, DMR Productions, and WETA Washington, D.C. David M. Rubenstein is the host and executive...