Ken Burns’ Documentary Explores American Revolution’s Legacy

WALPOLE, N.H. — Next year marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence proclaimed that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights. To commemorate this pivotal moment in history, renowned filmmaker Ken Burns has produced a new six-part documentary, “The American Revolution,” which premieres on PBS on Nov. 16.

Burns’ latest work delves into the complexities of the American Revolution, revealing the often overlooked perspectives of those affected by the historic struggle for rights. In an interview, San Diego State University history professor Ed Blum emphasized the documentary’s significance, noting that the Revolution marked the first fight for human rights on a global scale.

“It was a groundbreaking proclamation from people without political power that they possessed rights,” Blum said, highlighting the inspirational impact it had on various marginalized groups, including enslaved African-Americans. Poet Phillis Wheatley famously captured this sentiment when she wrote, ‘Liberty makes the weak strong.’

Political science professor Carl Luna reflected on the contradictions of the era, mentioning that many key figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson advocated for universal rights while simultaneously owning slaves. “This history is quite complicated,” said Luna. “Advocating for rights for white men was radical at that time, but the fight for broader civil rights would unfold over the next century.”

The documentary addresses the hilarious yet serious correspondence between Abigail Adams and her husband, John Adams. Abigail famously warned that without attention to women’s rights, they would “foment a rebellion.” Yet John dismissed her concerns, underscoring the gender dynamics of the period.

A recent nationwide protest, dubbed the ‘No Kings’ protest to commemorate Washington’s refusal of kingship, shows the ongoing relevance of the founding fathers’ values. “If the government does not respond to the people, it is their duty to change it,” said Luna.

Meanwhile, Burns intersperses beautiful cinematographic elements in his documentary. He uses reenactors and drone footage to visit historical sites, presenting a visual narrative that captures the essence and energy of the revolution. The actors—who include big names like Tom Hanks and Morgan Freeman—read historically significant documents to bring the story to life.

The documentary aims to connect past struggles to present challenges, offering insight into how American democracy has evolved since the Revolution. Throughout the series, Burns emphasizes that the quest to maintain a Federalist society is an ongoing narrative, not a concluded chapter in American history.

“It’s an epic story that has defined who we are as a nation and how we view the concept of freedom today,” Burns said. As the country prepares to celebrate this landmark anniversary, he hopes to empower viewers by reminding them of their roles in preserving democracy. “We must look back to understand how we got here and what still needs to be addressed,” he added.