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PBS News Hour

How America's military shaped the nation's history

Season 2026 Episode 230 | 9m 00s

Over the last 250 years, the United States military has helped shape the nation's history – from the fight for independence to its emergence as the world's leading military power. But as the military's reach has grown, fewer Americans are serving in uniform. Judy Woodruff explores what that means for the country in her series, Crossroads: America at 250.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
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