 Among the most utilized waterways in the world, the Yangtze River is also one of the most volatile. This program sheds light on humanity’s battle to tame and profit from the river—specifically, a project initiated by Chiang Kai-shek in the 1930s. The program also studies corresponding ecological problems. Viewers are introduced to the Three Gorges Dam, a concrete mega-structure visible from space, which has created huge economic benefits but also displaced thousands from their homes and irrevocably altered silt flow, geological formations, and fish stock levels. Citizens who have relocated and adapted offer commentary, along with scientists and engineers familiar with “China’s New Great Wall.” (52 minutes)
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