How the States Got Their Shapes (2010)

S1E1 A River Runs Through It

What role has water played in defining the geography of the United States? The intricate waterways on the map conceal fascinating historical narratives. Did the founding fathers err in their decisions regarding the Georgia-Tennessee border? Is it possible for that line to shift due to water dynamics? Why does Maine boast such an abundance of lakes and rivers? Conversely, what led to Nevada’s arid landscape? These intriguing questions are answered through the distinctive contours of these states.