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Clearing the Air: The War on Smog

Season 37 Episode 4 | 52m 39s

In 1943, dark, smoky clouds enveloped Los Angeles, causing residents to complain of burning eyes, nausea, and difficulty breathing. The source of the smog was a mystery. CLEARING THE AIR: THE WAR ON SMOG is the story of the epic struggle for clean air, involving years of scientific study and civic pressure that would lead to the creation of the EPA and the Clean Air Act. From AMERICAN EXPERIENCE.

Aired: 08/25/25 | Expires: 09/24/25
Corporate sponsorship for American Experience is provided by Liberty Mutual Insurance and Carlisle Companies. Major funding by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.
Extras
The chimpanzees in Fongoli have adapted humanlike behaviors to survive their environment.
ROADSHOW spotlights high drama, dire straits, and scandals with these sensational finds!
Appraisal: 1934 U.S. All-Star Team Baseball Signatures, in Sensational Finds.
Appraisal: Coro Duette Seahorse Brooch, ca. 1945
Appraisal: 1929 Radclyffe Hall “The Well of Loneliness” Victory Edition
Appraisal: Jehan Georges Vibert Oil, ca. 1875
Appraisal: Clara Bow anklet, Cartier watch and note from Sensational Finds!
Appraisal: "Mystery of the Maine" Posters & Banner, from Sensational Finds.
Appraisal: Frederick William MacMonnies Bronze ca. 1896 in Sensational Finds.
Appraisal: 1914 Pastime Novelty Co. "Kaloma" Photo
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