V. 1. Part 1. Begins with a look at two of the many crises faced by George Washington during his term as America's first president. At a time when any conflict had the potential to dissolve the fragile union, Washington surrounded himself with brilliant men who were bound by their undying devotion to America, but who were often bitterly divided about how best to serve their common cause ; v. 1, part 2. Explores the ideological conflict that existed between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton and highlights Washington's farewell address

v. 2, part 1. Portrays the bitterly contested presidential election of 1796 and the difficult administration of John Adams ; v. 2, part 2. Concludes with the poignant tale of the reconciliation between Adams and Jefferson, and the story of the famous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr.