Watch Westinghouse: The Life and Times of an American Icon

Westinghouse: The Life and Times of an American Icon is a documentary film that provides an insightful look into the life and legacy of George Westinghouse. Directed by Mark Bussler and narrated by Stockard Channing, the film features interviews with historians, engineers, and experts on Westinghouse. The film begins by chronicling Westinghouse's early years, growing up in New York and attending Union College. From a young age, Westinghouse showed an aptitude for invention, and after dropping out of college, he founded his first company at the age of 19.

Westinghouse's early inventions, including his groundbreaking air brake system for trains, revolutionized the transportation industry and led to widespread safety improvements. The film explores Westinghouse's role in the development of the modern railway system, highlighting his ability to see the potential for innovation where others did not.

As the film progresses, we see how Westinghouse's engineering prowess extended beyond transportation. He also played a key role in the development of electricity, and his alternating current (AC) system would eventually become the industry standard. The film examines the fierce rivalry between Westinghouse and Thomas Edison, whose direct current (DC) system posed a threat to Westinghouse's AC system.

Despite facing numerous setbacks over the course of his career, Westinghouse continued to innovate and look for new ways to make a positive impact on the world. The film highlights his commitment to improving the lives of workers, including efforts to create better working conditions and the introduction of profit-sharing plans.

One of the most compelling aspects of Westinghouse: The Life and Times of an American Icon is the way in which it brings to life the man behind the inventions. Through interviews with Westinghouse's descendants and archival footage, the film paints a portrait of a complex and sometimes enigmatic figure.

For example, the film explores Westinghouse's relationship with his son, George Jr., who struggled with mental illness throughout his life. Despite the challenges he faced, Westinghouse remained devoted to his son and was a strong advocate for improving mental health care.

The film also delves into Westinghouse's personal life, including his marriage to Marguerite Erskine Walker, with whom he had eight children. The couple's relationship was reportedly a happy one, although they faced their share of difficulties, including the loss of their youngest child.

Throughout the film, the viewer is struck by the profound impact that Westinghouse had on the world around him. His inventions and innovations changed the course of history, and his commitment to improving the lives of others is a testament to his character.

In the end, Westinghouse: The Life and Times of an American Icon is a compelling documentary that provides a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America's greatest inventors. The film is expertly crafted and offers a thoughtful and nuanced portrait of a complex and driven figure. Anyone with an interest in history, innovation, or the power of human ingenuity will find this film to be a fascinating exploration of one of America's most enduring icons.

Westinghouse: The Life and Times of an American Icon is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes.