The Hoover Dam

Description

With its impassable canyons, dangerous rapids and severe seasonal variations that could reduce the western states to a desert, the Colorado River was one of the most dangerous and unpredictable rivers in the world. But in 1902, engineer Arthur Powell-Davis dreamed of creating the largest dam ever and taming the wild river. The scale of his ambition was matched only by the scale of his plan. Several engineers bid for the project, but one man stood out—the ruthless and dedicated Frank Crowe. Many lives were lost as the entire Colorado River had to be diverted to make way for construction. Safety was sacrificed for speed. On February 1, 1935, the diversion tunnels were blocked. The Colorado resumed its natural course, and the dam went into operation. Frank Crowe, decked in glory, walked away with a $350,000 bonus. However, his great triumph had come at a cost. Throughout the four grueling years, over a hundred lives had been lost.

Runtime

49 min 50 sec

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