Programme Index

Discover 11,128,835 listings and 281,728 playable programmes from the BBC

The Mayflower Pilgrims: Behind the Myth

Duration: 1 hour

First broadcast: on BBC Two HDLatest broadcast: on BBC Four HD

Available for years

Documentary exploring the Pilgrims' journey west across the Atlantic in the early 17th century. The voyage of the Mayflower in 1620 has come to define the founding moment of America, celebrated each year at Thanksgiving. This drama documentary, based on governor William Bradford's extraordinary eye-witness account, reveals the grim truth behind their voyage across the Atlantic.

The Pilgrims' story has come to define the founding moment of America and all it stands for. It is remembered as a pious crusade aimed at founding a Puritan paradise. However, their journey from a harsh, often violent part of England to a colony assured of survival less than ten years later is also one of wealth, cruelty and entrepreneurial genius. Show less

Contributors

Writer:
Ric Burns
Director:
Ric Burns
Director of photography:
Tim Cragg
William Bradford (adult):
Roger Rees
William Bradford (child):
Josh Webb
William Bradford (adolescent):
Jos Brown
John Robinson:
James Thorne
William Brewster:
Matthew Jure
Richard Clyfton:
Howard Lee
Production Company:
CTVC

About this data

This data is drawn from the data stream that informs BBC's iPlayer and Sounds. The information shows what was scheduled to be broadcast, meaning it was/is subject to change and may not be accurate. More