They Came for Good: Present at the Creation, 1654-1820

"The first installment in the PBS documentary series They Came for Good: A History of Jews in the United States, this film uses historical reenactments, interviews, and vintage artwork to document the role of Jews in the dawning of American History. They Came for Good: A History of the Jews in the United States -- Present at the Creation, 1654-1820 begins with the arrival of Jewish exiles from Brazil in the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam, and traces their ongoing battle against prejudice and ignorance to live and worship as they saw fit in the New World. The film also explores the role of Jewish settlers in the American revolution, and how Jewish traditions were shaped by life in the new nation. This film was followed by They Came for Good: A History of the Jews in the United States -- Taking Root, 1820-1880."