The Eisenhower Legacy

In this first segment, learn why Ike was chosen to lead Allied forces in Africa, Italy and, as Supreme Commander, in Europe. We'll also see how he won the confidence of Churchill, Roosevelt and GI Joe as well as why, as a symbol of victory, he epitomized a glorious American ideal for a war-weary world.

The forgotten years of Ike's public life are explored in this program. The story covers his role in the post-war years as Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army when America quickly demobilized its wartime military machine, his retirement from the military and appointment as President of Columbia University, and his decision to enter presidential politics.

See how President Eisenhower handled the critical domestic issues of McCarthyism, civil rights and fiscal policy after 20 years of Democratic rule. Understand how Ike handled tricky political relations with Democrats and the powerful conservative wing of the GOP.

Learn how Ike dealt with the Communist menace on both diplomatic and military fronts and through covert CIA operations. We'll also see how he used personal diplomacy and the nuclear threat to keep a fragile peace.