Thirteen has distinguished itself through the production and presentation of programs recognized by critics and audiences as among the highest achievements in the medium. From Joseph Campbell's first televised course in mythology (1968) to Ric Burns' monumental NEW YORK: A DOCUMENTARY FILM (1999-2001); from the renowned HERITAGE: CIVILIZATION AND THE JEWS (1984) to the epic AFRICA (2001); from THE DICK CAVETT SHOW (1977-82) to CHARLIE ROSE (1991-present); from AMERICAN PLAYHOUSE (1982-1997) to STAGE ON SCREEN (2000-present), Thirteen has carved out a singular place in the television spectrum -- a place that invites all people to think, to learn, to wonder, and to grow via joyful, entertaining viewing experiences. Through its manifold and democratic nature, Thirteen offers something for all people, and, in doing so, it has become a notable part of our national cultural fabric. "Thirteen has grown up in a remarkable era," notes Dr. William F. Baker, president of Thirteen. "The Kennedy assassination, Vietnam, the first moon landing, Watergate, the Iran-Contra affair, the Persian Gulf War, the Internet revolution, the turn of the millennium, September 11 -- all occurred on Thirteen's watch. We've been a vital and constant part of late 20th-century America -- its viewpoints, its ideas, its turmoil, and its triumphs -- and now we are helping America move into the complex dawn of the 21st century. "During this period of progress, challenge, struggle, and achievement in America, Thirteen has created and broadcast hundreds of thousands of hours of programming on public affairs, culture and history, performance and the arts, science and nature. Not one of those hours has ever failed to respect our viewers, help them better understand their world, stimulate their curiosity, leave them better than they were before they turned on their TV sets." 1  2  3  4