Inside Forgotten America - 5th Gen Coal Miners 🇺🇸

Deep in the heart of Appalachia is a forgotten part of America. Once the engine of the country building the nation's great cities of the 20th century, it's now an economic shell of its former self. Join me today as we go to Harlan, KY to learn from some of the multi-generational coal families about how things have changed, what the youth are doing now, and what it's like to live in this forgotten corner of America.
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All rights reserved © 2023 Peter Santenello

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks Wes, Aiden, Jeff, and Jeny for bringing us into your world! It takes courage to let a guy in from the outside with a camera to record your lives. I'm rooting for you all as well as a lot of the audience here. And I'm excited to follow Aiden's journey moving forward, he's got so much amazing potential! -Peter ► More videos to come from Appalachia over the next few weeks. Appalachia Series Here: kzbin.info/aero/PLEyPgwIPkHo5If6xyrkr-s2I6yz23o0av ► Join our community: www.bit.ly/3HC36EH ► My exclusive content on Patreon: www.patreon.com/PeterSantenello

[@TigerTurban]

The real thing is not a path. The real thing is the authenticity of the seeker. Let me emphasize this. You can travel on any path. If you are sincere and authentic, you will reach the goal. Some paths may be hard, some may be easier, some may have greenery on both sides, some may be moving through deserts, some may have beautiful scenery around them, some may not have any scenery around them, that's another thing; but if you are sincere and honest and authentic and true, then each path leads to the goal. So it simply can be reduced to one thing: that authenticity is the path. No matter what path you follow, if you are authentic, every path leads to the goal. And the opposite is also true: no matter what path you follow, if you are not authentic you will not reach anywhere. Your authenticity brings you back home, nothing else. All paths are secondary. The basic thing is to be authentic, to be true. Osho

[@TheGoldeyFamily]

The REAL APPALACHIA!!!!!

[@helenswan705]

I am with you for all this. Living in NE England for so long, destroyed by the destruction of coal mining. I wouldnt want it back but we have to think a bit harder about people's futures. Yes we all left our doors open.

[@democracyforall]

It is inspirational as well, that when you see such tough work it sort of help to carry on with your own existence, I also work as electrical Engineer in UK but the old man says his son earn 200,000 dollars a year so may be will go to USA ha ha ha. Also this place can keep very big farms of different kind of animals that it can make billoins actually , from goats to sheeps to rabbits and many many others but the USA government can do that for them and none of them ever leave this place or complaine again. There is money if people can see it, the place is not a desert. Additionallly millions of and millions of fruites tree can be planted here too so there is money if the gov can do some thing about it...

[@georgiareddirtroad9919]

Another Great Video Pete!!! Love these people, I from GA but these are the kind of folk that I was raised up with. Our country would be so much better if there were more like these precious folks. OH- try to find out how we can get/order that Coal Mine shirt that Jeff had on, I would proudly wear one in support!! ❤❤❤

[@AlayciosTV]

Peter we really appreciate the time you spent with my family and me. You're a awesome guy you're videos are so truthful unlike most of today's news. You're very genuine and really appreciate you showing our Appalachia much love and respect Wes and Aiden Smith.

[@brittanylevinson741]

Thank you for letting us all in to see your life and being so vulnerable. Wishing the best for you and your family.

[@ticsbassplace]

No if he gna come thru wise county virgina

[@aglusci]

We work 40 arrs a days but were always home lol

[@margaretthatcher6828]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@itpatriot]

Thank you so much for sharing! Love you all!

[@yb8904]

As a black person from London, you understand how dangerous the media is and how much of a reflection of real life it is not. These people I'd already have a stereotype made about them that they are racist, violent drunks but they're just good people. It's crazy how much the media can divide people.

[@chamboyette853]

Great to hear this. I'm definitely not a "southern pride" person (born in Massachusetts and lived most of my life in Europe), but I really sympathise with the person talking about the confederate flag and am pissed at how the media tries to dwindle it down to say that anyone who wears it is automatically racist. One could say horrible things about almost any country 150-200 years ago. with things they did - American flag, British flag etc... The media really tries to put so many people in stereotypes.

[@gemox3225]

You are right. The media seems to be bent on dividing people by color especially because that seems to be trendy at the moment. They are probably making a lot of money off dividing people.

[@YanksandBritsProductions]

@@chamboyette853 Most of the Media is Fake, run from corporate and government.

[@YanksandBritsProductions]

Media is mostly Fake, never really realised until Trump started to point it all out. We as people are all messed up, brainwashed by media and BS for generations. I’m white Brit and not a racist at all, I met many African Americans when I lived in the states, great people!

[@teskejon]

Well said, friend. 👍🏻

[@charlesmccoy6078]

Hey Peter, this is Chuck McCoy from Eastern Kentucky, and I want to say that we appreciate your time spent, providing the opportunity ,for our community, to present the true stories, about our history. Appalachian families has produced some of the most successful and hardest working people around.

[@liono3097]

I have a question charles. Do immigrants ever try to move there? Like Asians or Mexicans?

[@ninjaturtle6106]

@@liono3097 I doubt Mexicans or Asians want to move to a place that's too remote..with no job opportunities.

[@AlayciosTV]

Actually several have moved into the area. Mostly restaurant workers and so forth. Wes Smith

[@littlemuffin943]

i love your area you guys are from. im a hillbilly from the backwoods of NH i want to come down and go sxs riding and exsplore and learn the history ! coal miners built this country without coal we didnt have steel and we wouldnt have what we do today.

[@zchris87v80]

I’ve lived in the outskirts of appalachia (I suppose still part of the region, upstate SC) for 14 years now, and I would love to just roadtrip to KY and hear these stories.

[@sablehund1219]

I married a "Kentucky hillbilly" and to be 100% honest, as a West coast women brought up in the affluent lifestyle that is the West coast, I have never met a more honest man. True to his word, true to his history and his heritage and most importantly true to his family. The people that live in the hollers of Kentucky can teach a lot of people what makes the American man the backbone of our nation. Thank you for your videos and open camera to reflect the people in this part of America.

[@myspacer99]

That's so awesome to hear. Usually, people outside of Eastern Ky don't understand our values of what family means or being a friend to the end what it means, and a hand shake still means something to us. Most of the time, we are just made fun of for our accent but those people making fun of don't realize we would give them the shirt off our back or would help them anyway we could we know we are the butt of the joke in alot of people's eyes we just choose to let it slide until we feel threatened then different story. You found a jewel by grabbing yourself that hillbilly.

[@petertrevena804]

Yes i agree on that, Honest and hard working.

[@joniwalters2694]

Absolutely, I am from Harlan and I can tell you that I have never stolen from anyone or anybody. i will tell you the truth and I will do anything for anyone. That is how we were raised. IT BLOWS MY MIND HOW SOME CITY FOLK ARE SELF CENTERED AND SO SNOBBY.

[@Silverfoxy50]

Im missed my calling. Almost 60 now and would have loved an honest hard working man to spend my life with !!

[@theresakrenz3121]

Absolutely 💯 truthful storytelling right there.. please keep in your prayers 🙏 these amazing 👏 people who have stayed true to the ideal s. USA stands for after being used and abused by big companies and slick politicians in Washington who might never know the true priceless gifts these people have shared with the rest of humanity

[@kennethwilliams7697]

Coal miners are some of the unsung heros who have kept this nation going. Men who are not afraid to go into the darkness of a mine shaft and be down there 8-12 hours a day, 6-7 days a week just so they could provide for their families. It's amazing! Thank you Peter for this truly eye opening look at these Americans.

[@eternaldrunk]

it's slavery

[@America_is_now_Mexico2.0]

Its the scourge of america! The money hungry coal miners destroyed the injins and made us what we are today. WOKE and WEAK nation…

[@lenaannis8787]

@@eternaldrunk I am not an American, and always thought the people of Appalachia were weird. Yes you are right is modern times slavery, keeping them uneducated, and the only future is working in the mines and taking drugs to survive this kind of life. One may say they are hard working Americans,but no they are treated like slaves. I feel very sad,ater watching this.

[@tnit7554]

​@@eternaldrunkyes. Is there any Labour protection act in the US ? As a european i am shocked.

[@Tonyx.yt.]

my great grandfather (he died well before my mother birth) used to be a coal miner in Montana

[@heathera2874]

This series should be watched by EVERY citizen of the United States of America and should be thoroughly examined in public school history classes. Thank you Peter.🙏

[@baybay7898]

There are many books on this subject too

[@petermartijnheite-bauwens1632]

The whole world need to watch this video. People can learn from this. Greetings from the Netherlands

[@misshelloareyouthere]

I ALSO think , WHITE Appalachia need to WATCH video on the how black people living in cities/ urban stay in property. WAKE UP poor white Appalachia and black folks have sooooo much in common but you haveallow Republicans and Democrats to mind F you.

[@misshelloareyouthere]

HATE TO SAY THIS, I do feel a difference between West Virginia and Kentucky from these video from a BLACK person point of view. That man from WV was right, hmmm

[@jimlthor]

​@@misshelloareyouthereWhat do you mean? Maybe I need to go back and watch the other video again

[@thatsmrheretic8295]

It's enraging how big pharma took advantage of these people's suffering for a buck. Every time I read about crime stats in Appalachia, I just think how much of it's tied to good people doing things to get comfort. This series of videos gives such a wonderful impression of Appalachia and its people. Thank you.

[@sadtr0mb0ne8]

Before that the Coal Industry took advantage of them and let them work to death for a few bucks.

[@user-el5yw1er2j]

Not just big pharma. The coal companies they worship did them bad too. And the folks who want to invest in these communities and provide education and retraining are painted as evil outsiders. It's a sad situation with no winners except the rich folks who make their bucks off of an expendable resource - human labor - and move on. And like it or not these people's votes and politics are impacting their ability to improve their lives. Pro-coal, anti-community investment, anti-retraining-dollars is what republican votes get them...and it obviously isn't working.

[@johnb.6468]

Do you think Big Pharma was allowed and directed to deploy this scourge on rural whites as retaliation for the crack epidemic?

[@AnonAmerica11]

It's ridiculous the doctor prescribing him 3 80s a day, and that's just one patient, only got 17 years. Yet this guy sells some of what he's got because they live in poverty and he gets 20. How's that make sense?

[@user-el5yw1er2j]

@@AnonAmerica11 Ha, now do the Sackler family.

[@chica2000ok]

As an European i truly loved these Appalachian episodes. I loved everything about it, the nature, the realness of the people, the history, everything. I hope new industries like Tourism will lift off in this region. For me it is on my bucket list for sure!

[@kalebind]

As an European?? uncertainty as to what you meant

[@gamayun6102]

@@kalebind Someone from the continent of Europe. It is interesting for us to peek into this world that we normally wouldn't be able to.

[@kalebind]

@@gamayun6102 that's not necessarily what I immediately meant ... an American village is quite the same as German or Scottish or Argentinian village there are no considerable distinctive differences

[@jiboia17]

As an European, it really is amazing to have the opportunity to have a genuine, raw, unfiltered look at some of these places in the US. wonderful work!

[@chocolatecity2]

What would be the equivalent in your area?

[@MrPeteDane]

@@chocolatecity2 I'm european (from Denmark) and in our case, since our country is so tiny compared to the US (in both area and amount of people) We simply dont have anything like this. I mean at all! Its so great to hear the stories of some people that are not the east or westcoast. The people who are most vocal will often paint the picture of the American people. Hearing these stories paints a broader picture of America and its people. Its such a great thing to be able to experience through these videos.

[@KB-ke3fi]

@@MrPeteDane The media is on the east and west coast. They consider us flyover country and not important, but they can't survive without what we provide with our sweat and labor and raw materials. They don't know what real work is.

[@jiboia17]

@@chocolatecity2 I'm from Portugal, and unfortunately a lot of our rural areas in the south and northeast (the regions of Beira and Alentejo) also suffer problems of desertification and abandonment. In our case, we have a similar issue to the coal industry with the agriculture fields that were abandoned due to EU agreements (not producing to protect the bigger agricultural industries from other countries in exchange for money to invest in other industries in our country). Of course this has turned places that were vibrant 50 years ago into complete deserts today. also, lots of families (like my grandparents) sold their old houses there since they did not have money to keep them as merely summer houses. The government is even giving money to young people to move to some of these areas to revitalize them.

[@chocolatecity2]

@@MrPeteDane ahhhh I see - I was wondering if you had rural areas too and how they compared. In 2023 there's so much content on KZbin re: different areas of the U.S. there's no reason for the Hollywood version to still be dominant. I have an electrician friend from Trinidad and he tells me when he goes back to visit, many people think you can literally see Beonce etc walking around. 🤣 I know what you mean tho - I've had Europeans tell me it blows their mind that you can drive in some states all day and it's so straight (like corn growing areas) that you never have to turn the wheel. The states culturally are frequently similar to whoever settled the particular area, with different regions being like different countries. Also, various immigrant groups influence politics. For example, many descendants of the Irish Famine became Democratic power brokers who supported social programs during the Great Depression of the 1930s bcs of course they empathized.

[@adamsjoberrg]

I'm from Sweden and obviously live a very different life compared to these people in Appalachian USA. I've now watched the entire series of the Appalachians. It's such a privilege to be able to see their life through your honest lens. I have not owned a TV for many years but what I remember from it, none of the channels ever had this quality of programs. You're not only doing a great thing in your own right, but you're also showing millions of people the possibilities of this medium and you're also making it obvious that people are actually longing for this kind of content. Real content, content that connects people across the entire globe rather than breaking people apart. It's important what you do. Stay strong and keep enlightening us Europeans about the real USA.

[@terintiaflavius3349]

How are things in Sweden for the regular people?

[@bjrnjensen3752]

​@@terintiaflavius3349in the Nordic countryes there Are No one that live i poverty. The goverment take care of its citizens

[@stephanielloyd5792]

Totally agree... honestly bringing us together with real knowledge of every culture. Go on Peter...go on!

[@darkomen42]

He's done a fair job of showing some of Appalachia, I'm in western NC in the mountains but we don't have coal down here. You have some areas with serious abject poverty and other areas that are very well off, where you are has a lot to do with it. The WV, Kentucky, Ohio areas of the mountains do very much have a boom or bust outcome depending on how the coal market is going. Peter definitely does a good job, he's letting people speak for themselves instead of putting his spin on it.

[@brianog5267]

Who digs the coal in Sweden??? The government???

[@MishaElRusito]

The most emotional episode on the channel. As a Russian, never even heard of this part of America, was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful nature and wonderful people that live there. Added this part to my list of the places I wanna visit in the US.

[@joniwalters2694]

They have one hotel in Harlan better make your reservation early lol

[@helentaylor7132]

Keep in mind that the Appalachians run from Canada in the Northeast down to Alabama. I live in the Appalachians in Pennsylvania and have visited other eastern states in the same mountain range. They are old worn-down mountains compared to the Rockies in the western part of the U.S. and beautiful in a different way. The U.S.A is so big and diverse that I have barely scratched the surface myself. Before you come, I would suggest doing research and decide what your main interests are (city, certain activities (such as hiking/skiing/rafting/amusement parks...), museums, wildlife, scenery, history, coastal and/or inland, etc.?) and maybe get an expert to help you plan!!

[@helentaylor7132]

@@joniwalters2694 LOL!!! As great as the people in Appalachia are, maybe not the best plan for an overseas visit, unless he's really committed and can find a contact person to make some arrangements? If he could get it into the country (ship it ahead?), you could compare his vodka to your moonshine. Just a thought.

[@victoriadavis4339]

Yes! Very emotional for me as well! Difficult to summarize I shoulda been a country girl🌴☀️🏄‍♀️

[@mikewilliams7218]

​@@victoriadavis4339I'm single😊

[@kd6836]

Being 7th generation Eastern Kentucky, I really appreciate your videos. I lost a grandfather to a shelf collapse. My other Papaw coughed up black until he died. Hard life. These videos are better than anything tv networks have produced for years. Keep up the good work.

[@conniewojahn6445]

Peter does exceptional work on all of his videos, this included.

[@quantumleapnetworkllc4373]

Im from a family of underground coal miners in Eastern Kentucky . i got my underground card the week i turned 18 ..

[@kd6836]

@@quantumleapnetworkllc4373Many don’t understand. Videos like this help.

[@Disneyfamiglia]

@@quantumleapnetworkllc4373underground card! I wish this was taught in American history bc it’s relevant and shouldn’t be hidden away.

[@thegirlatthebeach3221]

So true!

[@ToddBeal]

I had tears in my eyes when Wes gave you his moonshine and the walking stick. He's a good man. Thank you, Peter, for showing the humanity in people wherever you travel. Thanks for this.

[@stuartbagedonow9770]

Absolutely these people don’t have much but they’re glad to share it, I think these people who feel they’ve been discarded by American are thrilled to be treated by an outsider like a human being. Thanks

[@nilss5036]

What a great guy Wes seems to be

[@AlayciosTV]

Same person everyday none this was rehearsed or say this say that all how a man has lived and feels. Peter makes you so comfortable and he's such grate guy you enjoy talking to him. Thanks. Just plain Ole me Wes Smith.

[@niro6492]

Good guy

[@corydunaway]

This is almost any small town in the south

[@21stCPH]

This series should win some type of award. It is amazing, informative, and provides a fact-based perspective on a group of Americans most of us have never witnessed.

[@karenisabellestewart851]

You are right ! It is a gem ! So authentic and wonderfully done.❤

[@howlinsg1968]

And all without the liberal spin BS you find on tv.

[@xemy1010]

Some of the best documentary-type content I've seen. It's like Louis Theroux but more raw and less judgemental. Perfect evolution of that era of TV. Santenello does really good work IMO.

[@StalloneSiciliano]

It won't win awards because it's so factual. All the awarding bodies don't like facts

[@flouisbailey]

@@howlinsg1968 The media are in XiJoe’s pocket or he is in there’s should be in Jail.

[@philhill184]

Peter, I pastored a United Methodist church in Bell Co Ky for 7 years. Your videos are revealing the truth about the Appalachian area. Good people living in tough country.

[@repentorperish819]

KJV 1 John 3:5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

[@SalesforceUSA]

He is one of the most gracious host I have ever witnessed. No matter where he is, he is never judgemental, just reporting. May God bless this man and his family.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you. Wes Smith.

[@modelrailwaynoob]

You obviously missed the t-shirt

[@Rebecca2Dogs2Kids2Cats]

This series on Appalachia is the best series you have done! I am Appalachian, 7th generation, for 12 years I left the hollers, the hills and mountains of my Kentucky home...I went to college and then traveled and worked in many parts of the U.S. and a few areas of the world, BUT, Appalachia was always calling me home...so I returned to the hollers, hills and mountains of Appalachia and have no regrets. There is no place like it in the world! Thank you for showing the world the beauty of Appalachia along with the beauty of the souls of the people who call some of the areas in Appalachia home.

[@sweetteagrits3822]

This! My family goes back to the 1700’s in the hollers of the Smokies! It’s changed SO much in 15-20 yrs :(. Snowbirds, retirees and Westerners moving in and changing it up. To much overbuilding (I go back n forth between SoCal n South & I see it coming…)…sigh…

[@joshuabray37]

I agree (that it’s the best series he’s ever done), but I say that about all his series. Peter is the best as what he does… I live in Florida and my parents live in Michigan. When I drive up there, I go through W. Virginia, and back, I go through Kentucky. Those are 2 BEAUTIFUL places, with great people.

[@Nanab1975]

The mountains always calls us back home. I’m from Southwest part of Va. I went thru this but ended up back home and Been back ever since ❤

[@niro6492]

You have a great home its so beautiful

[@simp3204]

I've been gone almost 18 years and not a day goes by that my soul isn't called back to Appalachia. I think I'll be back somewhere in the mountains in the next 2-3 years.

[@odcyouknowme]

“Don’t make us look dumb, man. We’re good people… Just a simpler life” has me crying wtf :( such a great series wow

[@jeep19]

Just listening to them speak 🙊 makes them sound dumb.

[@weedsgaming420]

its not him doing it lol

[@sweetteagrits3822]

It’s was my family in the Smokies just farming not coal mining 😢…good ppl not dumb, simple.

[@simplelife88393]

@@weedsgaming420 Lots of left wing documentarians frame these people as dumb.

[@brownjatt21]

​@@simplelife88393Hollywood and media has done the most. Every movie n show always depicts them as backwards "Hillbillies". Damn shame cuz its done a lot of damage to peoples pride out there.

[@durgin1153]

To see Peter just freeze when hearing about going through 3 to 4 miles at 19-24 inch clearance really helped myself understand just how insane that is to comprehend. He hears endless stories with crazy details that should blow anyone away, but he never seems to be left truly speechless. To see him so stunned really sat with me, and even now, I'm not sure I can fully comprehend what it takes to do that and I'll be forever grateful for what these wonderful humans do to provide for their families and for what these people provide for our society. Thank you Peter for capturing these stunning stories!

[@j2b348]

In South African we travel a good 30 minutes by Train into the earth core before 😅reach the actual mining ⛏️ site. So 3-4 miles is nothing.

[@keemarie1]

@@j2b348it’s really not a competition!

[@sudanemamimikiki1527]

@@j2b348 by train. this is 3 to 4 miles at 19 inches. crawling.... which is about one and a half subways in lenght. so your experience is kinda nothing on that...

[@conniewojahn6445]

@@j2b348 Going by train isn't the same as inching your way through 10-24" tunnel for 3-4 miles.

[@Psychiatricnerd]

Evidently you can’t have claustrophobia as a coal miner. My skin starts sweating and heart starts pumping faster thinking of that.

[@simplypatti6705]

“It’s a simpler life but I wouldn’t want it any other way.” Such a strong statement! Bless these ppl; my ancestors!

[@coaldigger1998]

Worked as a underground coal miner for 45 years, started two weeks out of high school in 75 retired in 2020. It's a tough job but would do it all over again. Worked along side of some of the toughest and hardest working men that ever drew a breath. Everyone watched out for one another. If you ever got in a jam there were always backup, no questions asked. Good or bad it's a way of life in these mountains. Raised a family and damn proud. My dad was a miner and so was his, my mothers dad also a miner and his dad and his dad and all 11 uncles. Like ole Hank Jr. said and ole family tradition. A lot of us don't have a collage education but some do. Most of us never have to call a plumber, electrician ,carpenter mechanic. We all have on the job training LOL.

[@splithoof9567]

That is an impressive resume, sir! May your health hold up, and may you enjoy life!

[@campbub]

Thank you, to you and your family, for all the hard work and sacrifices you have made.. You might not get to see it, but you kept the lights on in hospitals, schools, and peoples homes. God bless you and yours ~From Toledo Ohio

[@upthedown1]

Coaldigger - Wow you are all awesome. God bless you. Enjoy your retirement.

[@djzrobzombie2813]

A true warrior... And american hero

[@SlayerRiley]

God bless mister!

[@donaldlahoda8693]

Peters reaction when he realized the propaganda about coal miners wanting their children to grow up to crawl around in dark dangerous mines until their bodies are broken wasn't true was priceless. He really thought us mountaineers wanted to do that. Heck no dude, it's just the price paid for living in a slice of almost heaven. Some better opportunities would be great but in the end we do what we must to survive.

[@tonyrmathis]

That propaganda was created to reduce sympathy for people harmed by political policies.

[@rc8929]

See this is what I don’t get. If that was true why are they voting in such a manner to focus on coal or preventing progress? I just don’t get it, but they keep doing it.

[@brockreynolds870]

Why don't they make more opporotunities? My grandfather made a NICE living as a cattle farmer.

[@jimlthor]

​@brockreynolds870 takes money to raise cattle. And you have to have fields. This is all rocks and hills. To start something like that these days, you'd need a few hundred thousand dollars, and you gotta make that by doing something else. By the time you make that money, you're already into a career and probably don't want to risk changing it I live in the midwest, and farmers with cattle are generally the richest people around

[@operator0]

Think about it this way; Millionaires buy land in the mountains just to have a place to get away from their crazy life. You guys get to live there on a fraction of the money they spend to do it. Yeah, I guess the price is that you have to work the coal mines, but it sure does look like heaven to me.

[@janiee7591]

Thank you, coal miners, for all of your sacrifices for us. Our coal plant was just imploded a couple of years ago. Our town isn’t the same since TVA shut down. We’ve lost a lot of businesses, including our grocery store. Times are changing. I just wanted to say I appreciate the sacrifices that were made for our comfort, and wish you all the best! 🖤

[@SoGshaiprosper5417]

Muhlenberg KY?

[@laurafleming597]

Lump in my throat and sorry to say "Good-bye" to these good people. Thank you for this look into their lives. A lot of heart in those hollers!

[@rebeccak7249]

I wanted to cry when Wes described how his family wouldn't give up on him and how any house from that vantage point would offer hospitality. This is the eastern Kentucky I know and love. Humble, loyal, hard-working people. Thank you, Peter

[@austist]

as an estranged child that turned to an adult and doesnt have family. it was nice to see what a loving family can be. i would trade everything to have the love and community that is portrayed in this video in my life.

[@katadam2186]

If you don’t come from one make one and just study up on what makes a great marriage and what children need psychologically at the different stages of development… no stress in the home and tell your children you love them and always want the best for them home rules and happiness and keep them off of tv and devices… til they are older!! Stay invested in them learning a musical instrument like violin starting young like five and practice Latin around the same age… home schooling like comprehension classics

[@cristiarhip3942]

The last part with the hugs and the jar, the cane and everything, moved me to tears. Such good, humble and honest people ❤❤❤

[@dietlindvonhohenwald448]

Best kind of people!!🙌🏻

[@cristiarhip3942]

@@AlayciosTV I wish you and your close ones a nice and peaceful life. I can only dream to live in a community like yours. If there were more people like you, folks, this world would surely be a much nicer place for everybody. Respectfully, Cristi Arhip.

[@chrisjie2127]

Statistically these people are probably considered "poor" or living in a "deprived" area. But just look at the beauty that surrounds them, the community and the big families. They are winning.

[@victorygarden556]

They have to work so much they don’t see their families much. Not really a great win.

[@cherylbrooks9836]

​@@victorygarden556 that's why you cherish the time when you have it.

[@staralioflundnv]

@@victorygarden556 True everywhere with everyone who must work though.

[@AL-lh2ht]

Just ignore the drug use, broken families, and poverty.

[@chrisjie2127]

@@AL-lh2ht drug use, broken families aren't problems in the "wealthy" cities ? People don't work hard in wealthy cities? These people's families seem fine. His son is a lineman earning $200k per year and their mortgages are paid off.

[@missqt3146]

You should be nominated for an Emmy based on all of your wonderful series!

[@bethulrich5406]

cept thee emmy's mean nothing,,,-its a large metal clanky object given to you by people who are for "THE AGENDA",,-meaningless,,,-HE DESERVES BETTER.

[@moneyjunkie2805]

💯💯

[@allwaswell4741]

I held it together until Wes started giving you parting gifts and the tears started flowing. Thanks for this series. Not sure I ever gave a lot of thought to this part of the country, but I'm glad to know more now.

[@victoriadavis4339]

What a Sweetheart of a guy💗

[@MegaMegzTX]

Yep same here 🥹💗

[@Impala_Lily]

I don’t know how I happened upon your channel …. But absolutely loving it! I’m South African and I’ve never heard of Appalachia! What a beautiful part of the US and how friendly and welcoming the people are! Salt of the earth people 💖💖

[@SubZ3ro907]

I grew up in Nicholas County West Virginia, watched my dad die from black lung after decades of underground mining. This video really hit home for me. You have made some great videos. Thank you.

[@PeterSantenello]

I'm sorry about your father. I'm glad you liked the video.

[@terintiaflavius3349]

​@@PeterSantenelloI don't know if you realize or not but with the polarization in this country your videos allow us to see people for who they are not who the media says they are.

[@buddyalbert5808]

@@terintiaflavius3349Agree

[@jimbeestone2578]

I've followed this series with real interest. A Brit here, from the Midlands region. A long way from Appalachia, but I'm the last in a long, long line of coal miners in North Warwickshire and County Durham, UK. My dad was the last miner in the family; did 24 years at the biggest pit in the UK, Daw Mill, which shut due to an enormous underground fire in 2013. I did one nightshift with him there before it shut when I was a teenager. A whole different world. Fair play to you, mate, for telling these people's stories.

[@HedgieEirulf]

250 million years ago the mountian range did connect with Britian. There are cultural differences but the age and energy of the ground are the same.

[@NashEsq]

@@HedgieEirulf The vast majority people in eastern Kentucky, southwest Va, and southern West Virginia are descended from people from Britain. I think our ancestors could feel that they were at home in the mountains here, even if they didn't know it at the time.

[@RJT80]

I don't know if people understand what it means when these industries go away. The US economy, like most Western economies, has transitioned to a service economy. People in offices answering emails and doing spreadsheets. Easier? I guess. More fulfilling? Not to me. And there is little job security. Silicon Valley can axe 60,000 jobs in a weekend and nobody notices. Elon Musk can fire 80% of the staff at Twitter and nothing changes except his bottom line. Men working with their hands and pulling things out of the ground is actually why Russia has survived sanctions. Sending all our kids to college is a terrible idea that we've been engaged in for decades. Learn a trade. An actual skill.

[@Jon14141]

@@HedgieEirulf Wild to think about

[@morgainedepolloc4161]

My ancestors from Durham, Goodenstone in Kent, and Chilham also in Kent, eventually settled in the Appalachians. Many were soldiers deeded land there after their service in the US Continental Army-- after the US Revolutionary War (ie. The Battle for America). We are connected---even though separated by years and distance. Cheers!

[@AlayciosTV]

I really appreciate all the views and kind words. Thanks to each of you. Wes Smith Aiden and family.

[@lgb6110]

his reaction to the gunshot was priceless city boy.

[@metarugia3981]

Wes has such a BIG heart, that you know he's willing to give you his last dollar. He's the the kind of person this world needs more of.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you just the person my family reared me to be. Wes Smith

[@lizzypop2628]

@@AlayciosTVwe love you Wes!!!!! I am touched after watching this video😭😭😭😭😭 I have a fresh perspective on life thanks to y’all.

[@marina-6922]

I am italian, I have never been to the US but I always dreamed to visit... This videos kept me glued to the screen. It is insightful to see a different side of the US. Real people, real hopes, real struggle.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you. Wes Smith

[@KB-ke3fi]

The American media silences the people who produce the resources and labor of this nation, and treat them like scum.

[@bethulrich5406]

AWWW!!!;) I Cant wait to Visit Italy!!!;)🥰❤️💕❤️🇺🇸❤️💕❤️

[@stephensmith4480]

@@AlayciosTV Sir. I watched that from start to finish and the one thing that struck me was how really genuine and nice all the folks were. Your sense of family loyalty is something to be proud of and if a few more people followed your example, the World would be a better place. You also live in what looks like a Beautiful part of the World. Very best wishes to you from The UK.

[@LordDirus007]

I really want to Visit Italy. I am very fascinated by Roman History

[@Jacki_Morris]

Im a homeschool mom and on fridays we do history. I will be playing your Appalachian series for my kids. Thank you for being honest and allowing the people to speak for themselves.

[@ChelseaJets]

God bless these folks! Solidly working class men who provide for their families! Hope to visit the mountains from Scotland soon 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇺🇸

[@jimikarhukorpi3135]

Wes is propably the BEST man i have ever encountered in internet. Such a genuine guy, with realistic and traditional views of life. I can see, he does not want bad to a another person, a nd family means everything to him. I think a WHOLE WORLD has someting to learn from Wes. I love you man, and hope you have a lovely rest of your life. Greetings from Finland.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you so very much just trying be the man my family expects me to be Wes Smith.

[@AlayciosTV]

Much love to you my friend Wes

[@williamhartz8707]

I admired him being a proud father and emphasizing getting a good education for his kids.

[@trishhobbsphillips3478]

Appalachia is so naturally beautiful. But it’s so sad that Granny with 8 kids didn’t get any compensation from the Coal Company after her husband got crushed in the mines. Tragic!

[@lukeut8680]

In the fall when the leaves change colors it's ridiculously beautiful too : )

[@101doreen]

Peter, I don't know your educational history. To me, you are a boots on the ground Journalist. You ask real questions, listen, and let the people report/share their life. Thank you for giving us a truthful glimpse into the lives of our people and areas less traveled.

[@staceywinters7884]

Thank you so much, Peter. As a New Yorker who has lived in Italy 43 years, this brought me to tears because I know this is what we Americans are really like and we are so misunderstood (especially overseas, but even at home). Real people. Family. Common sense. Work. No complaints. As soon as I was able, I chose to help the Appalachian community just a little bit. My way to offer a stranger a meal, as Wes said.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you so much Wes Smith

[@kathrynjohnston794]

I love this series! The people of Appalachia are good, hard-working people. They are very family, community oriented people who have strong American values. It's too bad that they are not looked upon better. There are, unfortunately, old stereotypes that are not true. I pray that God will protect and provide for them. God's blessings on you for the eye-opening videos you do from Proctor Minnesota!

[@capicolaspicy]

Thanks to Peter and the amazing stories he shares maybe this video will be one of those that helps correct the misguided uninformed perceptions many have of this part of the country!

[@jamesprice4647]

'Strong American values' has multiple meanings, but these people really do seem like the 'salt of the earth', and life has not dealt them a great hand.

[@stevejones5075]

They are not looked better upon because they arent very educated and are poor

[@fabiolacontreras5983]

I agree! This is one of my favorite series

[@markusa5521]

These people are the heart of America and we have taken them for granted and not even knowing of it. If it was for these people are country would not run period. We as a country have to to better for these people period

[@MizzzzBeehive28]

I actually cried when I watched this at the end. He gave him a jar of shine and a walkin stick. That’s honorable. My people are from Letcher county Kentucky.. all my papaws And great papaws were miners. My blood runs deep in those hollows and hills. My home always.

[@efogg3]

Brought a tear 😢💪🏻❤️

[@haroldpruitt8207]

One of the best documentaries I’ve ever seen. These people are the salt of the earth. They speak the truth straight from the heart. We should all have the honor and pride that they have.

[@laurab659]

The part where Wes talked about the Bible really fascinated me, as we have basically the same tradition in Eastern Switzerland! Deep in the countryside of the regions of Toggenburg and Appenzell we also still have prayer healers and get laughed at just the same

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you very much my day with Peter was such a privilege. Wes Smith

[@repentorperish819]

KJV 1 John 3:5 And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

[@DesiDreams_]

Wes giving you gifts during y'all's goodbye had me so emotional. Great video, good people, and a beautiful part of the country. Thank you Peter for another great video.

[@dianelaliberte1878]

YES, HAD ME EMOTIONAL AS WELL!

[@staralioflundnv]

I feIt heartfeIt tears of gratitude for their generosity and their enduring spirit. This is some of America's most humbIe and finest peopIe!

[@oohglenn]

I'm not crying your crying!

[@aprilsmith3683]

Teary eyed...🇿🇦

[@AlayciosTV]

@dezdreams thank you Peter is a grate guy we message and keep in touch. Wonderful person.

[@JordanJimmyDavison]

Wes is a awesome dude and great example of a real American rural family. Remember when the media, Hollywood and college types said to these folks “ learn to code”? Now AI is taking writing jobs from Hollywood and other high level accounting jobs and other white collar jobs. Guess they didn’t see that coming.

[@Philbertthegreat]

As someone who's been through this part of Appalachia before and knows and loves a lot of the people who live there, this is so needed. Thanks for brining this area of the United States to people's attention and for giving them the respect they deserve.

[@capicolaspicy]

OMG this episode had me in tears and extremely emotional multiple times. So beautiful to see a thoughtful well researched piece showing these beautiful people and the lifestyles they've lived and the struggles they have had to endure within their own communities. Thank you so much for this episode Peter! And thanks to all of the people of Appalachia who have been willing to share themselves and their stories with you!

[@1Surt]

tears? You sound emotionally unstable. Seek help.

[@staralioflundnv]

Me too. Most of this episode had me emotionalIy reIating and going into tears. It was a heartfeIt connection and Peter captured the HUMAN spirit and shared it very weII.

[@demolitionmann777]

Wes explanation of the Confederate flag gave me a better understanding as to what it means to your region and your family....much respect Wes, as a black man from Los Angeles I love what you spoke on you are totally right..... you and your son remind me of my dad growing up, it brought tears to my eyes because my dad is no longer here...... much love and respect, love the video Peter 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@user-fy3wb4uh7i]

All Northern states participated in slavery. Britain, France, Portugal and Spain all bought and sold slaves in the America's. Brazil didn't free their slaves until 1888. Yet the South is always blamed.

[@YoSo14]

"you know I am not racist buuuuuuuut.." they think all the drugs come from the south border, but fentanyl is produced and distributed in US soil. Easier to blame the south border...

[@AlayciosTV]

Much love and respect to you my friend. Glad you enjoyed. Wes Smith

[@CP-rr1hd]

As a black woman from Alabama, me and my family have been terrorized by people carrying that flag to the recent day. I have family in Appalachia and it isn't as painful for them. Not everyone who claims that symbol is the same, but multitudes of people use it to harm just the same.

[@CP-rr1hd]

​@@AlayciosTVI lived in WV a short time and I was always treated well, just as described.

[@mattrajotte]

As a fairly open-minded person I never really think in terms of stereotypes but as a "Yankee" the Appalachia videos have still opened my eyes and helped me understand what is essentially a different American culture. I feel more connected to you now. We have a lot in common. I really appreciate the Appalachia series! -from Matt in Massachusetts.

[@CSpottsGaming]

I just love these videos (not just Appalachia but some of the other series on this channel) and the fact that the comment sections are so positive. This is a part of the country that gets a lot of hate and misunderstanding because of its history and some of the challenges it faces today, but showing honest, hard working people in such a raw way is great. No rose colored glasses here, just the honest truth of the people. I can't get enough.

[@morgainedepolloc4161]

As a daughter of Appalachian pioneers and people indigenous to the region---your comment is very much appreciated. I have spent most of my life in DC, but have never forgotten the homeland. And I will add...some of those MA Bay colony Pilgrims took the Great Wagon Road down from Philadelphia to settle in the Appalachians--including my ancestors. We are all connected---but evolved sometimes in isolated pockets. When visiting Quincy MA, I have ALWAYS enjoyed the time spent with Irish-Portuguese friends--alike in many ways. Tough bunch that can persevere!!!!

[@samuelpayne9724]

I love seeing these comments! I’m from the town he started this series in. Hope you and your family can come down here some day and enjoy the trails and country! You’re welcome here!

[@katadam2186]

Take a look at Pennsylvania coal and mines; Very North

[@morgainedepolloc4161]

@@katadam2186 I wish more people recognized our similarities instead of our differences, like you comment indicates. Unfortunately, most "southern" coal miners are much more disparaged and marginalized than the coal miners "up north." Even though many suffer the same concerns and issues. It is the LAST GREAT American prejudice!! ---Hatred of "southerners" regaradless of their background, and even positive viewpoints. And it doesn't matter if you are rich/poor or your background---the growing trend is to hate southerners. I have especially encountered this prejudice from the "educated" professors and historians at GETTYSBURG. I have tried to do reasearch with them---but because I am from "the south," and considered "white" although mixed race (like MANY southerners), I am automatically labeled a racist, and expected to grovel and beg forgiveness. Which to me is unnecessaruly divisve and uncalled for. Do they ask forgiveness for the war crimes committed against non-combatant civilians as they "heroically" saved the Union? Or forgiveness for turning their genocidal tactics against the Plains Indians immediately AFTER FREEING the slaves? I am not trying to accuse or pick a fight, but just offering some perspctive as someone who has experienced this form of prejuidice. I highly respect PA coalminers, and hope most of them can see beyond the current prejudices---because they are a "brotherhood"

[@LetsKeepItAuthentic]

This series has been so moving and inspiring. Please Peter, always take care of yourself too, so that you can continue to feed us with your experiences. Take breaks. Recharge. You’re a hero too.

[@HindsightFPV]

Props to this man for busting his ass and working for everything he has. I really like this family and the way Wes explained how he feels about racism and the president. It's unfortunate that people in these area struggle because they're so kind and welcoming.

[@hanktheblesseddeejay]

My family worked the coal mines in North East England, there’s even an article reporting my 3x Grandfather dying after going back into the mine after surviving an explosion to try and saved his colleagues who were trapped, unfortunately him and another rescuer died in the process, leaving his wife widowed with 9 children. Coal mining is brutal

[@branninic]

Just want to take a moment to tell you how much I appreciate these videos. I was raised in Pike County, KY and I feel like these are some of the best and most raw depictions of what life is like in Appalachia. I now live in Louisville, KY and even though I’m still in the same state, it’s like a different world from the one I left. Most people don’t understand how much different life is there. I truly appreciate you showing an unfiltered and unbiased perspective of people in this area. How good and wholesome they are. It’s refreshing to see Appalachian people being well represented.

[@Laurie_Tinsley]

My deceased husband came from Kentucky. I lived in Kentucky for a few years and the people I met there are good hearted people.

[@jasonhilfrink9461]

The Appalachia series is the best yet. What a great group of people and the tension of pride in the work and anger (not the right word but can’t think of a better one) with the mines shows through. As always thank you for exploring all of these different communities and bringing us along for it!

[@DramaMustRemainOnTheStage]

I'd call it betrayal. Just my word though

[@brittanylevinson741]

Not just because it’s my own heritage but because few people take the time to truly understand the way Peter does. He can walk into any room anywhere in the world with his huge open heart and he genuinely takes the approach that everyone has value. He recognizes that everyone has something to teach him. That quality shows his humble nature. He also asks difficult questions in a non-accusatory way. Specifically surrounding issues that are presently in the national spotlight where people who have relatively extreme views would put far more weight on the answer versus a measured and practical stance. I appreciate that about Peter that he accepts people at face value. The biggest thing in Appalachia is the minimal education that is available. That he can speak to someone of any background and come away having learned something new regardless of their level of education, income, or circumstance is why he has been so successful going in to places traditional media could never deign to even approach. It means a lot to see personally that he has gone where my family comes from and is able to show that just because you’re from the backwoods doesn’t mean you’re just a worthless uneducated hick.

[@JESUS-CHRIST-IS-LORD-1]

True saying bro

[@bkraft]

I live in Appalachia in Eastern KY near the border of West Virginia. This video is an accurate representation of the people here. People here are so friendly, and I don't understand all the negative stereotypes Americans in general have had toward this area. I'm not a native, but the people took me in and don't treat me like an insider. The people in my church treat me as if I've always been with them. And just the other day, my truck fell off its ball joint in the middle of a grocery store parking lot. Out of nowhere came three men who got ON THEIR BACKS and proceeded to tell me what exactly was wrong. And older lady came up to me and told me she'd pray for me. And several people offered to help. It's not like this in other places of the country I've been! The property here is cheap, the people are friendly, and the scenery is beautiful. The only thing lacking is the economy, and of course we have the drug problem, which if we had a better federal government could really stop a lot of this stuff from entering into our nation at the borders. I personally can't think of a better place to live. I'll live the rest of my life here. Appalachia is home. And for those that don't know, Appalachia is pronounced "apple atch ya," NOT "apple aesh ya" People here are particular about the pronunciation! LOL

[@alexfreeman3219]

Ya as soon as I read the title of the video my first assumption was that these are salt of the earth genuine people that are honest as the day is long. Having lived in Los Angeles most of my life, I am well aware of what is missing from big cities. The assumption that these folks are country bumpkin hicks is totally backwards. These are some of the most honest, hard working, genuine people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. I have come to think that the assumptions about these people are made out of jealousy and spite that they have live a life of value and reward that is not available in modern big cities. God bless!

[@beebs6456]

36:52 when he says "there's times that my family should have just turned their back on me, but they didn't and kept pushing you're better than this" i felt that personally on a whole other level

[@TheLKel89]

I'm sitting here crying. My family is from Hazard and Harlan KY, and Jellico TN. All coal miners from the hollers, so many wonderful people. God fearing, patriotic, kind folk...rich heritage in Appalachian music and culture, a way of life that is crumbling away and it's exactly what America needs right now!! The hills and mountains sing with nature and life. Bring this America back please! Bring back hard work and Mamaws making biscuits and gravy and growing up in strong families... I miss this so much. When the civil war/WW3 starts, THESE are the areas people need to retreat to. Plenty of guns and plenty of land to live off of. These are the people who will fight back and save many of us!! And it's so sad the terrible drug problems and the hollers filled with drug smugglers and dealers now instead of grandpa and grandma and hard work and life... we have to secure our borders and keep all the drugs out the best we can, save people and American life.

[@stevedavis6879]

Wow! Strong words 👌, and I totally agree. Although I'm in the u.k I fully understand this situation . Coal mines closing in the 80s here had a devastating effect on the communities where iam from. H.N.Y

[@bobslate7231]

It's been about 15 yrs ago but back then I used to ride a motorcycle and remember riding through Jellico TN such a beautiful little town it was fall absolutely gorgeous.

[@63DegreesNorth]

These good folks you're introducing us to Peter in this series are clearly the true heart and soul of America. These kinds of interviews and insights will go a long way to restoring the good reputation of America as a nation and a people after so much divisive politics and press over the past years. Thank you to everyone who has shared their lives with you, and to you for sharing their stories with the world. Best wishes from Finland.

[@thomasfeiller2207]

everyone needs to like and share... increase the circulation... I really like meeting these people.

[@Drax514]

I absolutely disagree with you entirely. How can you say these men and women are the heart and soul of America? They support Donald Trump, who literally is a seditious traitor to America. This is fact. Trump tried destroy our liberty, our freedom, and our democracy, and these people all still support him and will line up for him. I'm sorry, no. Flat out, NO. These people are not the heart and soul of America. It's frankly disgusting to suggest that.

[@ewolthaus]

Dear Peter, I love your series on Appalachia ! It's beautifully made, it has great stories and information and spectacular footage of beautiful Appalachia. However, I'm most impressed by the amazing people that live there. Honest, hardworking, no BS folk. Proud of their work, land and family. Really impressive. I hope we get to see a lot more videos on Appalachia. Love it! Ernst (Netherlands)

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks Ernst! Yes, more Appalachia video to come.

[@noob.168]

I think you meant to send an email.

[@elieshasteffanson5758]

My thoughts exactly! I am truly loving this series. Thank you Peter! I have ancestors from Kentucky, and Tennessee. I love learning about the Appalachia region.

[@farzana6676]

​​@@PeterSantenelloPeter, at this point you should be made the ambassador for the United States of America to the UN. Nobody shows beautiful America the way you do!!!

[@NothingButSilicone]

@@farzana6676Or give him his own show on a major network, giving him full control on the topics. At one time, there were a lot of people like him, but everyday that goes by, there are far less. Peter strikes me as a centrist, that today perhaps leans slightly right.

[@mikeembasado668]

Wes and his family are the meaning of America. Good people in an amazing area. They are the lucky ones.

[@mattsmith9423]

The first 19 years of my life was spent in Harlan County and I moved away for work. I also got the speech from my dad who told me to find another job and If I tried to go into coal mining he would talk them out of hiring me. My dad spent 37 years underground and was forced out with multiple back surgeries and 2nd stage black lung. He worked long hard hours for my brother and I so we could have a better life. It will always be home and 99% of my family still reside there. After being away for 21 years I still miss "Home" and the people of Harlan. It was the best childhood one could ask for and the folks there are some of the best in this country. Awesome series!!!

[@MrManny323]

LMAO, Peter's face when they told him, 3-4 miles of crawling at 19 inches. I dont blame him, i had the same face expression

[@dl1hwx]

I normally do not comment. But this without a doubt THE most interesting series that Peter has presented. I liked the Amish series, but since my roots can be traced back to this part of the planet -- I loved it. Just a shame there are only 3 parts...

[@nataliasantenello]

There’s 4 more episodes coming!

[@timetherington1986]

Agreed. The Amish and Appalachian series are my favourites... so far.

[@alexandremarques9639]

This series should be watched by EVERY citizen of the United States of America and should be thoroughly examined in public school history classes. Thank you Peter.🙏 612 Responder

[@garygodfrey9708]

Peter, It’s great you’re doing this series on Appalachia. I apologize my comments are long, but the lord put it on my heart to share this in hopes some will read it. In the early 90s I took a job as a Geological Technician. I was a dropout with a 10th grade education and no job skills. I was also a raging alcoholic, coming off of a recent divorce. I had two small babies 2 and 3 with my ex wife. The job would require me to travel to Chevron gas stations in Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. For the next 1 and half years I did UST (underground storage tanks) risk assessments at every Chevron in every part of these states. I traveled to the exact locations and routes you took when making these videos. I went to Bluefield, Grundy VA, WV, all the way up to Wheeling and through all of Kentucky including Harlan. I found the people of Appalachia just as you have portrayed them. It’s sad but good in a way to see they haven’t changed with everything else in this world. They are who they are, not what others tell them they should be. They were hard working, humble, honest and giving people. They were also not so trusting,a bit reserved and treated me with suspicion as they should have. Remember I was there doing risk assessments at mom and pop gas stations that Chevron wanted to know if their gas tanks underground were leaking fuel into the groundwater. Cleaning it up may have fallen on the owners or chevron depending on who owned the station. And my truck did read Environment Engineering on the door. The Appalachian area was beautiful and for the most part I felt at home even though I grew up in Fairfax Va, my family was from rural NC. I feel at home with simple country people more than people in the DC area, or any other urban areas. But what really struck me was the poverty. They were hard working and proud people, but back in 90s if a town had a Walmart it was considered a wealthy place. Many people got by selling and buying stuff at flea markets or sharing what little bit they had with friends, family and neighbors. But the poverty broke my heart. I would see children with hand me downs too big or small for them but I knew it’s all they had. I would see trailers with boards to cover the holes and keep the weather out, and in the backyard I would see swing sets and knew kids lived in the trailers. I came off the road after my time on the road and I got sober and cleaned up my act. Mainly for my kids sake, but also for my job. My job and my kids were about all I had left. I was renting rooms from people at the time and I have child support so I had to keep the job. I went into a rehab and the company paid my bills and my rehab. I got out I started attending AA meetings. I have been clean and sober about 33 years now. I went to school and got my GED, A diploma in Computers and a BS in Computer Networking. I am not bragging I am just blessed to be able to do all that and I have a great wife who encouraged me and supported me through it all. It’s not easy working all day and going to school nights but together we made it. I became a computer systems administrator and made good money contracting to the federal government . Today I am retired in SC and living a life I only dreamed of at one time. I have been married for 28 years. We met in the rehab and got married when we both were 4 years sober and we had a son. Our son, has a masters degree in accounting. My daughter and grandkids now live in WV up on a mountain. My daughter and her husband work hard, and are happy despite not having a lot because they know they have friends, family, and neighbors who would do anything for them. I am proud of here she’s been through a lot but she is very resilient. Even though we don’t have pensions and live on our savings we give every month to a charity setup in Appalachia called the Appalachian Christians fund. It’s the only charity I give to, my wife gives to St Judes. My reason for this is not a pat on the back for helping others but is to bring light to a people who are forgotten and misunderstood by the rest of the country. There are many charities for every race, creed and type of people out there but this is the only one I found that actually helps these forgotten people that I still remember got me through some really hard times. Thanks for doing these videos and I hope many see what you and I have saw in this forgotten part of the country. I am a subscriber and enjoy all your videos but this series really hits me hard. I feel for these people. God bless America and God bless the people Appalachia.

[@joeziegler9054]

I am a descendant from a family of coal miners in KY. My grandad and all my uncles worked the coal mines after my grandad was sent to prison for making liquor and the feds got him. Thanks for sharing Peter! There is some great people in them hills up there!!

[@mirvakallio3553]

This brings back memories! I was an exchange student in Kentucky back in the early 90s. I haven't been back.. but watching this made me instantly feel at home. Once you experience the Appalachia it just stays with you for life. 💕 Here I am.. in Finland.. some 30 yrs later listenin' to good ole country music while barbecuing.

[@HighMaintenancePS]

I’m watching from New Zealand. I’ve always been fascinated with regional America and in particular the Appalachians. Thanks for doing these documentaries but most of all thank you to the beautiful, strong kind people that let’s us into their lives. I really appreciate you all.

[@Shineon83]

…”Just don’t make us look stupid” 😢 (The irony is that these folks have knowledge that most of us can only dream of)….

[@chemonmusic]

I love this style of interview, let the people tell their own story with their own words. Instead of a 2 min clip where a reporter projects an agenda of the top of video. Peter you are doing great work.

[@chrissizemore8705]

I grew up about 20 minutes south of there. Coal is life there. So many people depend on coal and the mining to feed their families. The mines closing has absolutely devastated so many towns and families in that area. And it sucks because they're such good people. They work hard and they'd give you the shirt off their back if you needed it. I've literally seen it happen. You must've made a big impact on Wes. For him to give you a jar of homemade shine and a walking stick, he must've thought highly of you. We don't just give that shine away lol. I'm glad you're giving people like him a voice. Those areas are dying. My home town is already dead. Drugs and poverty have completely taken over. I'm hopeful that we can help before it's too late, but I doubt it happens.

[@AL-lh2ht]

The reality is coal is the most inefficient and costly form of energy (let’s 100% ignore it’s the most pollutive too). The reality was there is no future in coal. Either the state govmenrt had to massive subsidies it or have a massive region wide change of their economy. But they did neither and destroyed themselves. And sense this is America people can leave to another state for better opportunities leaving only the old and the troubled.

[@chrissizemore8705]

@AL-lh2ht Sounds simple in theory to just up and move to another state when coal starts to die. But you have to remember, these people have lived here for generations and most of the time, their family all lives close by as well. You also have to think about the costs that come along with a move. A lot of these folks live paycheck to paycheck so moving isn't really financially feasible. There are also other factors like education to consider. So it sounds easy, but it really isn't.

[@The_Ballo]

@@AL-lh2ht I don't know what you're smoking, but at least coal extraction is an energy net positive, unlike wind which will disappear the moment it's no longer subsidized.

[@elanamccullum1677]

WELL TIMES CHANGE AND PEOPLE NEED TO ADAPT...MOVE WHERE THERE IS WORK..NOTHING STAYS THE SAME UNFORTUNATELY

[@kinggatty9874]

Being from Hazard Ky and living this life first hand I wish everyone got to spend some time in a place like this, the people from the holler in eastern Ky is the best people in the world, the world would be a better place if everyone in this world was like people from the hollers of Ky.

[@engineeringeconomics]

Peter is the REAL MEDIA

[@kristofferfalk5339]

@PeterSantenello - this series is by far the best one you have made. Thumbs up and greetings from Denmark 🇩🇰

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks Kristoff! I'm with Denmark tomorrow as Vingeegard wins again! My wife was rooting for Pogacar and me Vingeegard from the beginning. Such a humble Viking!

[@Gina-dn6xm]

I'm from Southern Ohio , Appalachian County. It wasn't coal country, but my mom worked at a factory and had a sixth grade education. My dad worked the railroad and died when I was three. I do have to say people from Appalachian are honest and mostly friendly. I was the first in my extended family to graduate from college. I also left Appalachia. The area is beautiful , and the people are real. They are misunderstood, but you will not find more honesty anywhere. Thanks for this series.

[@e.toujours]

Wes and all the family were completely charming, humble, wise, and generous. What wonderful people.

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you so much. Wes Smith and Aiden.

[@SnowyNI]

These folks are the salt of the earth! God bless them all, and much love and respect from Scotland! 🙏❤🤍💙🍻🥃

[@birchouse]

I literally just finished part 1 of the Appalachian videos to find out the second part had been released. These are my first videos and I am blown away by your easy going, empathetic interview style. I listen to KZbin as I work and it was incredibly interesting to hear the stories and thoughts of these folk. You got me hooked, consider me a subscriber.

[@ratscats9456]

He has an Amish series that’s a good watch also. Actually all his videos are worth a watch.

[@birchouse]

@ratscats9456 awesome! I'll check it out. I live on the tip of Appalachia and in Amish country, so both cultures are familiar to me. I'll be binging all his videos as it gives me something to watch while sanding

[@ratscats9456]

@@birchouse sounds like a wonderful place to live. Hope you have a great day.

[@operator0]

@@ratscats9456 Yes, the Amish series is my favorite, and I go back to re-watch it quite often.

[@aquamarie3162]

As a proud Kentuckian from bowling green, I have to say this is the best series. Maybe I'm biased, but the story of the coal miners & people of Appalachia deserved to be told. These people are the strongest, most morally-grounded l, and kind-hearted folks out there. Thank you Peter for showing the truth. Best channel on KZbin! Love & respect to all our coal miners! 👏❤️🇺🇸👍🙏

[@PeterSantenello]

Thank you Aquamarie!

[@tinabostick1872]

This made me cry. My momma was born in Harlan KY ( dog patch ) right in the hollers and my grandpa and many generations were in the coal mines. This video made me miss my mom ( she died of lung cancer) and it broke my heart. Thank you for going down and meeting some if these great people. What was missing is there are many many poor people who's homes are shacks even in today's standards. Thank you for all you have done. I have my grandpa's lunch box, helmet with lights and the lights they carried that would tell you what's happening by changing colors. ❤ thank you again. Love you momma.

[@liono3097]

Watching this from Bangladesh. Absolutely loved the people there and loved their way of life. I am praying that they Appalachia starts thriving again.

[@Programming-Is-Easy]

I'd love to see you follow the coal production up the chain. Go visit a steel town and see the people that make the steel with the coal that is mined in Appalachia. This has been a fascinating series. I don't often comment on KZbin videos, but just wanted to say I really love and appreciate what you're doing and your approach to exploring the country for us.

[@ceeme03]

I really do appreciate these videos, as a guy from the countryside of England. All I've ever heard about any part of Appalachia was stupid horror stories, but over the last couple of years I've travelled to the states a lot and come to crave hearing and meeting what I consider the real Americans society forgot about, those people who work hard, are proud of what they have worked for and seem like good honest people. This video encapsulates the types I like to meet perfectly.

[@Bella-fz9fy]

Living in the UK,I think Hollywood films have got a lot to answer for ‘knowledge’ about Appalachia!🙄

[@777dragonborn]

This is what true America is it's not forgotten about ,it's purposely being ostracized and attacked for years with media lies and drug abuse on the younger generation. It's like anyone who holds to strong moral and independent values homesteads grows large farms and familys and works hard. They don't want to exist.

[@baybay7898]

@@777dragonborn the hardworking people and their sacrifices/contributions to the country are not forgotten. But it’s also true that the region as a whole is deteriorating with high % drug abuse (mentioned in Peter’s previous video too) in youth.. many other issues. What does media lie about?

[@christiansmith2140]

because the media is a bunch of snobby d bags that don’t understand these people at all

[@777greenice]

​@@baybay7898Media has always painted the Appalachian area in KY as backwards and impoverished by means of it's own people. They painted people in that area as inbred and dumber than a bag of hammers. Hollywood portrayed them as stupid and inept.

[@sh-df1bb]

It definitely takes a rare breed to do the work and live the life of a coal miner. We thank you all for the hard work you do every day to provide coal to our country and the rest of the world 😊

[@victoriadavis4339]

Thank you so much Peter for this program I’m a Southern California girl.. Los Angeles to south Orange County I’ve gotta tell you I am so proud and grateful of these gentlemen.. (and they are gentle) for the sacrifice they have made And I’m a bit jealous of their community and the area where they live. The loyalty and kindness they are true to. And grateful for the recovery of the one gentleman. He’s not had a walk in the park. He speaks so sweet to his son. Their story brought tears to my eyes Such a beautiful story💕🌴

[@sheogorathmadgod9608]

Growing up in Harlan, I moved away to join the Marines then went to college, I wish my friends there and their families had a replacement industry (s) that could come in a revitalize the area. These are mostly people with good hearts, work ethic, and the best sense of family values I have ever had the pleasure of being around.

[@robinr.770]

Grandpa was a coalminer in Kentucky. I never got to meet him. I was able to travel with my folks one time to that part of the country in my youth. Walking along the banks where the Rough river intersects with another mighty river, I felt like I had stepped back in time to another place. I didn't want to leave. I was comfortable there and people were kind. I had never seen a place so beautiful. But, in retrospect, now I know better. My mother was wise to pick up and leave Kentucky, although her heart always longed for home. Thank you for this.

[@whippet3784]

I have about the same family history. When my mom was 2 years old, the family picked up and moved to Ohio for a better life. Never met my coal mining Grandpa. He died of black lung when my mom was 13 years old. She said she and her brothers and sisters were called hillbillies when in school. I am proud of my Kentucky heritage. Peter's Appalachian series is so good!

[@robinr.770]

​@@whippet3784You know, I have visited with so many people like you and I. We seem to come from strong stock; hard working people with a great reverence and love for family. I hope you have made a life for yourself that has made your heart happy. Best wishes.

[@darkomen42]

You should read Hillbilly Elegy by JD Vance, it very much explores a lot of the trek out of the mountains by many families in the early 20th century. It's a common family history for millions of Americans.

[@BigMoore1232]

Both my grandparents on my dad's side came from Floyd county Kentucky. They left and came to north central Indiana at 16 years old with all their brothers and sisters. My great grandpa's on both dad's side died before they were 30 from being shot in union disputes. Wild family history but fascinating. I love the Paintsville/Prestonsburg region of Kentucky like I grew up there.

[@robinr.770]

​@@darkomen42Thank you for this suggestion.

[@danielle5360]

Im from yo4kshire england u. K and since i was young ive allways dreamt of living in deep apalacha, its an absolutely beautiful place and as these ppl show in all yr apalacha videos there such warm car8ng friendly genuine set of folk, good honest, hard working ppl. From good honest hardworking family's. THANK YOU FOR SHARING THESE VIDEOS WITH US ALL, THAY ARE BRILLIANT 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍♥️♥️♥️👌👌👌👌👌👌

[@bigdoguk7773]

Living in England, I have been fascinated with this area and the Appalachian people for years, and am really enjoying this series and am so glad you did it Peter, thank you! The landscape is stunning (even with the missing mountain tops), and the people are real honest, hardworking, decent and friendly folk (as long as they like you).

[@timhouston2408]

Even if we don't like someone,, we still won't be unfriendly,, we just won't stick around to visit or chitchat,, we'd still do anything we could to save their lives,, help change a flat tire or even help their family if their garden didn't do good and help give food n stuff,, but we wouldn't be what you'd call unfriendly

[@bigdoguk7773]

@@timhouston2408 I love that attitude, I wish everyone the world over took that approach Tim.

[@777greenice]

Many of the people here in this area have Irish and Scottish ancestry.

[@linnyhajnalka4393]

Wes is such an upstanding man. You can feel his warmth and kindness through the camera. I would love to visit him and go into that wooden hut he had full of cool antiques, as I love learning about stuff like that. He's such an interesting and sweet person, and hope he has all the good fortune coming his way.

[@ianstuart5660]

Definitely!

[@Ocean_Kite_Engine]

I agree 100%

[@sapmiknife]

Wes, the greatest of all time❤

[@AlayciosTV]

Come on down well go threw the buildi g.

[@cryptoisthewaytogo]

Wes is an all around great guy, you can just feel it through he camera. It looked so beautiful there when they were on top of that hill over looking everything

[@ChaChaGames19]

Doctor got 17 years...and the guy he got addicted to Oxy got 20. That's our "justice" system in plain sunlight for you. I'm thankful for this video. You really shined a light on something I'd have probably never paid attention to.

[@user-go8wq3pv6o]

32:16

[@jeremitrius1234]

and the sacklers of purdue pharma who told physicians that their drug (oxy) was not addictive got 0

[@daviddavidsonn3578]

@@jeremitrius1234 one free thought, look WHO owns the big pharma...you will find answers...

[@PaulSmith-mh2yq]

He said 20 yrs then later mentioned his son was 9 when he went to prison and 18 on release - or did I mishear ?

[@tomdavis5715]

@@PaulSmith-mh2yq Because of "good behavior," he was paroled after doing nine years of his 20 year sentence.

[@williamwillis9691]

One of the best if not THE best representation shows of REAL life in the mountains the world knows as Appalachia. Peter this is award worthy. The world needs to see how these folks have been robbed and continued to drive forward. ❤

[@gigachad9016]

It’s so fascinating how families are struggling with the dilemma of keep the family close together vs wanting them to make something better of themselves and not be trapped into coal

[@oflearning]

I cried right through this episode. It really moved me. How kind and good these people are, and how much they've given and how little they've got in return. Good people, the kind you don't find anymore. Wes, if you read this, I wish that life gives you everything you want and need with no limitation. Big hugs from Bangalore, India. Peter, you're a star. Thank you for the education we all needed.

[@alinapatricia8639]

Yes, it's quite moving. Wes' story, family, Aiden, etc. The innate goodness of humanity. Peter's good nature and respectful decorum are significant in how the people he meets interact with him, too. People open up when the person in front of them is sincere, kind, and respectful.

[@bethulrich5406]

YES!!!-TO BOTH COMMENTS🙏❤️💕❤️🇺🇸❤️💕❤️

[@AlayciosTV]

Thank you so much for the kind words from a world away. Wes Smith.

[@bennygreene1421]

Takes a special man to be a coal miner. Not just anyone could do it.

[@chrisnichols9187]

$32 an hour is not exactly scraping by