Ford, GM and Chrysler, America's "Big 3" automakers, are in serious trouble and demanding help from the government. Is the global economic crisis to blame, or are these companies simply not adapting to the markets, making big expensive gas guzzlers that no one wants? Al Jazeera's Washington correspondent takes a brief look at the history of big cars and the American dream, and also explores possible global repercussions if the Big 3 go bankrupt.
To get an idea of American public opinion on the bailout, check out the Gallup poll video too.
This video can be found at The rise and fall of the US auto industry 18 Nov 08
