American Experience

Hard Hat Riot

On May 8, 1970, construction workers in NYC violently clashed with students protesting the Vietnam War, signaling the emergence of a new kind of class divide. Hard Hat Riot chronicles a struggling city, a flailing president, and a bloody juncture when the nation diverged ― culminating in a new political and cultural landscape that radically redefined American politics. FROM AMERICAN EXPERIENCE.

Hard Hat Riot

1h 21m

On May 8, 1970, construction workers in NYC violently clashed with students protesting the Vietnam War, signaling the emergence of a new kind of class divide. Hard Hat Riot chronicles a struggling city, a flailing president, and a bloody juncture when the nation diverged ― culminating in a new political and cultural landscape that radically redefined American politics. FROM AMERICAN EXPERIENCE.

Previews + Extras

  • How the Hard Hat Riot Predicted Today's Culture Wars: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    How the Hard Hat Riot Predicted Today's Culture Wars

    S37 E5 - 4m 13s

    In December 1969, the United States Selective Service conducted its first draft lottery since World War II, fueling a nationwide firestorm between those conscripted to serve and those who found a way out.

  • Who Were the Hard Hats?: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Who Were the Hard Hats?

    S37 E5 - 4m 59s

    At the dawn of the 1970s, blue-collar workers were re-shaping New York City's skyline. But they were also building an America that would leave them behind.

  • The 1970 Riot that Split America: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The 1970 Riot that Split America

    S37 E5 - 3m 47s

    On May 8, 1970, students protesting the Vietnam War gathered on the steps of New York City's Federal Hall. What happened next revealed America's great divide—and shaped the political and cultural landscape for decades to come.

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