This series, the best of the BBC, came out in the bi-centenary years. It matched exactly as I was studying American politics at "A" level. Personally, it expressed what I thought was best about - warts and all including the Vietnam War. Not then, perfect but, with wisdom, what could be possible, what could be inspirational. My optimism may be jade but the joy I enjoyed when I first saw this series remains pristine despite the years and all that has since followed.