Ken Burns Tackles the Birth of a Nation in "The American Revolution"

November 16, 2025

Ken Burns Tackles the Birth of a Nation in "The American Revolution"

A monumental new documentary series from acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns, "The American Revolution," premiered on PBS on November 16, 2025. This sweeping six-part, twelve-hour event delves into the complexities and contradictions of America's founding struggle, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective on the eight-year war for independence.

Directed by Burns, alongside Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, the series aims to move beyond the mythology and nostalgia often associated with the Revolutionary War. The filmmakers spent over nine years on the project, weaving together the stories of well-known figures with the experiences of ordinary people, including soldiers, civilians, Indigenous communities, and enslaved individuals, to present a comprehensive and multifaceted narrative.

A Star-Studded Cast of Voices Brings History to Life

As with many of Ken Burns's documentaries, "The American Revolution" features an impressive lineup of voice talent to bring historical figures to life. The series is narrated by Peter Coyote, a frequent collaborator with Burns. The cast includes Josh Brolin as General George Washington, Paul Giamatti as John Adams, and Jeff Daniels as Thomas Jefferson. They are joined by a host of acclaimed actors such as Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Maya Hawke, and Morgan Freeman, who lend their voices to the letters, diaries, and documents of the era.

More Than Just a War: Exploring the Complexities of a Nation's Founding

"The American Revolution" goes beyond the battlefield to explore the political, social, and cultural upheavals of the time. The series examines the deep divisions within the colonies, with allegiances torn between Patriots and Loyalists. It also confronts the profound contradiction of a fight for liberty in a land where slavery was deeply entrenched.

The documentary relies on a rich tapestry of historical materials, including paintings, maps, and first-person accounts, to create a vivid and immersive experience. In the absence of photography from the period, the filmmakers have employed innovative techniques, such as evocative cinematography of historical landscapes and subtle, non-facial reenactments to convey the grit and reality of the 18th century.

How to Watch "The American Revolution"

"The American Revolution" is available to watch on PBS platforms. All six episodes are available for streaming on pbs.org and the PBS App. For those who prefer a physical copy, a 6-DVD set of the series is also available for purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where can I watch The American Revolution by Ken Burns?

You can watch "The American Revolution" on PBS, pbs.org, and the PBS App.

When did Ken Burns' American Revolution come out?

The documentary premiered on November 16, 2025.

Is Ken Burns a Republican or Democrat?

Ken Burns is a longtime supporter of the Democratic Party and has described himself as a "Yellow dog Democrat". He has made political contributions to Democratic candidates and causes.

Other Ken Burns Documentaries:

Ken Burns has a long and celebrated career of producing in-depth documentaries on American history. Some of his other notable works include "The Civil War," "Baseball," "Jazz," "The Vietnam War," and "Country Music." A comprehensive list of his films can be found on the PBS website.