How the States Got Their Shapes (2011-2012)

EndedDocumentary showHistory

How well do average Americans know their country? Brian Unger hits the road to uncover the history hidden in the lines and contours that make up the U.S. map through man-on-the-street quizzes and head-to-head competitions. Contestants battle to win some cash, show their state pride and display their knowledge of U.S. geography as they reveal how the country took shape.

Streaming

Watch Now

Network

Scheduleevery Saturday at 22:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Season 2Episode 1960 min

The United Shapes of America

After three years on the road, host Brian Unger is taking a different look at just how our states got their shapes. We'll hear about the unique American values that have made this country what it is today, and travel from coast to coast and everywhere in between. Along the way, Brian reveals that just as we shaped the map, it has shaped us.

Dec 22, 2012

Recent Episodes

Episode	Name	Airdate
S02E19	The United Shapes of America	Dec 22, 2012
S02E18	Big vs. Small	Dec 15, 2012
S02E17	Rich vs. Poor	Dec 8, 2012
S02E16	State vs. State	Dec 8, 2012
S02E15	Mess with Texas	Nov 24, 2012

View all episodes View all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions Warning: Spoilers

When did 'How the States Got Their Shapes' first premiere?

'How the States Got Their Shapes' premiered on May 3, 2011.

How many episodes were there in the first season of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

There were ten episodes in the first season of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'.

Who is the host of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

The host of 'How the States Got Their Shapes' is Brian Unger.

What is the format of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

The format of 'How the States Got Their Shapes' is a documentary-style series.

What topics are covered in 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

'How the States Got Their Shapes' covers the history, geography, and culture of the United States.

What is the aim of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

The aim of 'How the States Got Their Shapes' is to explore how the states in the United States came to have their unique shapes and sizes.

What inspired the concept of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

'How the States Got Their Shapes' was inspired by Mark Stein's book of the same name.

Which states are featured in the first episode of 'How the States Got Their Shapes'?

The first episode of 'How the States Got Their Shapes' features Vermont, Texas, and California.

How does 'How the States Got Their Shapes' use maps and animations?

'How the States Got Their Shapes' uses maps and animations to illustrate how the borders of the United States and its states have changed over time.

What is the significance of the term 'gerrymandering'?

'Gerrymandering' is a term used to describe the manipulation of voting district boundaries for political gain.

How does 'How the States Got Their Shapes' explore the history of the American West?

'How the States Got Their Shapes' explores the history of the American West by examining the impact of Manifest Destiny and pioneer life on the region.