1: A perilous course

Historian Rick Perlstein traces the country's ideological divisions from John F. Kennedy's assassination through Richard Nixon's campaign to modern politics.

Political scientist Lori Cox Han traces the growing role of women in politics from 1968 to now: "Women are not a monolithic voting bloc, and I think that's one of the biggest misconceptions out there."

Roger Ailes helped Republicans use television to get elected for decades. He was more politically influential than many politicians themselves. In 1968, Ailes helped Richard Nixon win the White House -- and he was only getting started. Gabriel Sherman, author of a biography on Ailes, traces how the master manipulator shaped elections from Nixon to Trump.

Historian Peniel Joseph explores how racial anxiety and resentment among white voters shaped the 1968 campaign -- and still shapes politics today.

Nixon uses a powerful weapon in new ways: television. Politics will never be the same.

Richard Nixon campaigns on law and order, while George Wallace rises on racist rhetoric. The run for the White House intensifies.

The list of Democratic candidates grows. The campaign continues in the shadow of national grief.

1968 rolls in, the Vietnam war rages on, and early presidential primaries show a country beginning to splinter.

1968 brought tragedy, violence and an unforgettable run for power. Campaign '68, coming Oct. 2, captures the chaos of an American presidential election.