How and why does a democratic America become a slaveholding society; exploring this paradox from its origins in 1619; slaves arrive at Jamestown; the influence of Bacon's Rebellion in 1676; the expansion of slavery throughout the South in the 1800s.

Roger Williams's efforts to establish freedom of religion, a somewhat forgotten story from early colonial America; religious life in the early Massachusetts settlements; Williams's controversial ideas; his influence on religious freedom in America.

A symbolic expression of the idea that all are welcome in America takes place in 1654; the Dutch West India Company allows Jews from Brazil to settle in New Amsterdam; a gateway to understanding immigration as a central theme in American history.

In terms of per capita civilian losses, King Philip's War (1675 - 1676) is one of the deadliest; this war is critical in shattering the relationship between colonists and Native Americans; uniting the British colonies in a shared American identity.

The idea of a free press becomes a central principle of American democracy; the 1735 arrest and trial of New York printer John Peter Zenger; it radically changes the political culture of the colonies; shaping the language of the Bill of Rights.