This first hour introduces the first inhabitants along the Bay’s shores and continues through European exploration and settlement, including Spanish, Russian and American influences.

In the first episode, "Marvel of Nature" (Prehistory - 1848), photo-realistic animation illustrates the formation of the Bay following the last Ice Age. This hour introduces the first inhabitants along the Bay’s shores, including Native Peoples along with flora and fauna, and continues through European exploration and settlement, including Spanish, Russian and ultimately, American influences that dramatically altered the region.