THE ROOSEVELTS: AN INTIMATE HISTORY
PBS, 8:00 p.m. ET
Part 2. Last night’s opening episode established the Roosevelt family tree, and in particular tiptoed along one branch, following brash young Theodore as he worked his way into politics, ultimately ascending to the largely ceremonial office of U.S. Vice President. Beginning with tonight’s Part 2, Teddy Roosevelt suddenly finds himself as the President – and what he does with that office, expanding its powers largely through force of will, gets the 20th century off to an amazingly fast start. Also in this installment: Teddy’s niece and his fifth cousin, Eleanor and Franklin, marry one another. For my full review, see Bianculli’s Blog. And to hear my review on NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross, which includes audio samples from several episodes, visit the Fresh Air website. Check local listings.