Exploring Warren G. Harding: Best Documentaries and Resources

Warren G. Harding's presidency, marked by a mix of political genius and scandal, has fascinated historians and the public alike. Numerous documentaries delve into his life, presidency, and the controversies that surround it. This article explores the best documentaries available, providing you with an in-depth look at Harding's political career and historical impact.

The Best Documentary on Warren G. Harding

One of the most notable documentaries about Warren G. Harding is part of the acclaimed PBS series American Experience. Titled Warren G. Harding: The American President, this documentary offers a comprehensive exploration of Harding's life, presidency, and the controversies surrounding his administration, particularly the Teapot Dome scandal.

This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in American history. It provides a detailed account of Harding's political career within the societal context of his time. The documentary discusses Harding's background, his rise to power, and how his presidency has been viewed historically. It features expert interviews and archival footage, making it a well-rounded resource for understanding Harding's impact on American history.

Comprehensive Series on American Presidents

If you're looking for a more in-depth analysis of Harding and all American presidents, consider the 8-episode documentary series The Presidents from C-SPAN. This series provides short but detailed insights into each president, with episodes lasting 5 to 15 minutes. This makes it easy to digest and provides a solid background on Harding and his contemporaries.

The Presidents TV series covers a wide range of topics, including Harding's political career, his presidency, and the societal issues of the early 20th century. The series is available to purchase on DVD or watch online, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Where to Watch and Buy

For those who prefer to watch The Presidents TV series online, several platforms offer streaming options. C-SPAN has made select episodes of the series available on their website. Additionally, the episodes are often available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and iTunes. For a full DVD set, you can purchase the series directly from Amazon or C-SPAN's official website.

Additional Resources

The documentaries mentioned provide a solid foundation for understanding Warren G. Harding. However, if you're seeking more scholarly resources, consider the following:

Books: Scholarly books on Harding are widely available. Authors like William Allen White and A. Scott Berg provide in-depth analyses of his presidency. Archival Materials: The Presidential Library and Museum of Warren G. Harding in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, houses a wealth of archival materials, including personal correspondence, photographs, and political documents. Historical Journals: Journals like The American Historical Review and Pacific Historical Review have published numerous articles on Harding and his era.

Conclusion

Warren G. Harding's presidency remains a subject of fascination and debate among historians and the public. The best documentaries and series offer a balanced and engaging look at his life and presidency. Whether you're a dedicated history buff or just curious about this controversial president, the resources available can provide valuable insights into American history.