National Geographic - Rivers and Life (2009) Part 5 Rhine

Rivers and Life

Celebrating the ever-changing nature of our relationship with the Earth’s amazing water systems, Rivers and Life reveals how the cultures and lives of millions of ordinary people are shaped by the magnificent waters they live along. River-by-river, we explore six of the world’s most iconic watercourses, tracing their routes, their histories and their changing lives, telling the compelling stories of the life that’s lived along their banks. We encounter indigenous communities who dwell in harmony with rivers; modern traders, artists and artisans who make their living there; and vast metropolises which – now more than ever – depend on 21st century technologies to keep the ancient waters at bay.

Part 5: Rhine

It's an inspiration and a thing of beauty in itself but in addition the Rhine is also an industrial and economic force making it the busiest waterway in the world. It flows from the Swiss mountains through Austria, Germany, France and Luxembourg to the Netherlands. Many densely populated cities and towns are clustered along the River, bringing the total population of the Rhine Basin to approximately 50 million. The history of the Rhine is the history of Europes divisions and also its unity.

Full Version Available Upon Request
Related Documentary