How the States Got Their Shapes

Synopsis

The show deals with how the various states of the United States established their borders, but also delves into other aspects of U.S. history, including failed states, proposed new states, and the local culture and character of various U.S. states. It thus deals with the "shapes" of the states in a metaphorical sense as well as a literal sense. The show format follows Unger as he travels to various locations, and interviews local people, visits important historical and cultural sites, and provides commentary from behind the wheel of his car as he drives from location to location. Interspersed with these segments are brief historical synopses by notable U.S. historians.

First Air Date: 2010-04-06

Last Air Date: 2012-12-22

Number of Seasons: 2

Number of Episodes: 29

Networks: History

View Technical Specifications on IMDb

Top Cast

Brian Unger as N/A
Jennifer Brunner as Self

Seasons

Specials (2010) - (1 Episodes)

Season 1 (2011) - (10 Episodes)

Season 2 (2012) - (19 Episodes)

Specials (2010)

No overview available for this season.

Episodes:

Ep. 1: How the States Got Their Shapes (2010-04-06)

We are so familiar with the map of United States, but do we know why our states look the way they do? Every shape on the map tells a great story about our past. Why is California bent? To cling on to gold. Why does Oklahoma have a panhandle? Because of shifting borders for slavery. Why does Missouri have a boot? Because of a massive earthquake. Every state is a puzzle piece ultimately revealing the unique geography, political and social history of America.