The American Revolution
The American Revolution was at once a war for independence, a war of conquest, a civil war, and a world war, fought by neighbors on American farms and between global powers an ocean or more away. It impacted millions from Vermont’s Green Mountains to the swamps of South Carolina, from Indian Country to the Iberian Peninsula. In defeating the British Empire and giving birth to a new nation, the American Revolution turned the world upside-down. Thirteen colonies on the Atlantic Coast united in rebellion, won their independence, and established a republic that still endures. The American Revolution will present the story of the men and women of the Revolutionary generation, their humanity in victory and defeat, and the crisis that they lived through.
Episodes
Ken Burns' six-part film on the American Revolution.
1In Order to Be Free (May 1754 – May 1775)
116 minNov 16, 2025★ 3.8
Opposition in colonial North America to British policies over taxes, land and sovereignty escalates into violent confrontation; war gives 13 colonies a common cause.
2An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 – July 1776)
124 minNov 17, 2025★ 3.6
Congress puts George Washington in command of a new Continental Army; Congress declares American independence in July 1776.
3The Times That Try Men's Souls (July 1776 – January 1777)
115 minNov 18, 2025★ 4.0
British General Howe defeats General Washington, forcing the Americans to abandon New York; Washington's army regroups in New Jersey before attacking an outpost at Trenton.
4Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 – February 1778)
116 minNov 19, 2025★ 3.6
General Howe takes Philadelphia, but the Americans' surprising victory over General Burgoyne at Saratoga encourages France to support the U.S.
5The Soul of All America (December 1777 – May 1780)
114 minNov 20, 2025★ 3.6
The French-American alliance changes the war and moves it to other theaters; navies battle off England and in the Caribbean, while armies advance in Indian Country and the South; the British take Charleston.
6The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 – Onward)
131 minNov 21, 2025★ 3.7
British General Cornwallis struggles to pacify the southern states; supported by the French, a victory at Yorktown secures independence for the Americans.
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