The story of America's migrants begins in the south of Mexico, at the border with Guatemala where impoverished Central Americans barter across the river.
The official crossing point between the two countries sets the scene for the smuggling of cocaine, marijuana, people and thousands of children. What drives Central Americans in their quest for the United States in the face of so much adversity?
A fundamental desire for peace and safety, away from ruthless street gangs, especially for their innocent children. Many of them are fleeing Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador after a lifetime of fear.
Their passage to America is on board a freight train known as "The Beast". With no way to get inside, migrants clamber on top in a huddle to make their journey, exposed to the elements and the gangs who threaten them on the way.
They continue on their journey north, in spite of the risk of failure, violence and death motivated by the hope of a better life in the United States.
Video : Channel 4 news