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How the States Got Their Shapes (2010) poster

TV series

How the States Got Their Shapes

2010–2012, English, on History.

The show deals with how the various states of the United States established their borders, but also delves into other aspects of U.S. history, including failed states, proposed new states, and the local culture and character of various U.S. states. It thus deals with the "shapes" of the states in a metaphorical sense as well as a literal sense. The show format follows Unger as he travels to various locations, and interviews local people, visits important historical and cultural sites, and provides commentary from behind the wheel of his car as he drives from location to location. Interspersed with these segments are brief historical synopses by notable U.S. historians.

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Seasons
2
Episodes
29
Episode length
Varies
Status
Cancelled in 2012

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Where to watch How the States Got Their Shapes

How the States Got Their Shapes is streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and HISTORY Vault in India.

Latest episode

S2 E19: The United Shapes of America

Aired 22 December 2012

Seasons 2

Details

First aired
6 April 2010
Last aired
22 December 2012
Network
History
Language
English
Country
United States
Type
Scripted
Rated
TV-PG

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News & fan talk

If you liked How the States Got Their Shapes

How the States Got Their Shapes: quick answers

Is How the States Got Their Shapes worth watching?

How the States Got Their Shapes doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.

How many seasons of How the States Got Their Shapes are there?

How the States Got Their Shapes has 2 seasons and 29 episodes.

Is How the States Got Their Shapes finished?

Yes. How the States Got Their Shapes was cancelled in 2012, so you can watch the whole story.

Which OTT platform is How the States Got Their Shapes on?

How the States Got Their Shapes is streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and HISTORY Vault in India. (Checked 10 November 2026.)

How the States Got Their Shapes parents guide: is it suitable for kids?

How the States Got Their Shapes is rated TV-PG. That rating means it is generally fine for children.

What shows are like How the States Got Their Shapes?

If you liked How the States Got Their Shapes, try Top Gear, American Experience, Down to Earth with Zac Efron.

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