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Benjamin Franklin

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Ken Burns's four-hour documentary, "Benjamin Franklin," explores the revolutionary life of one of the 18th century's most consequential and compelling personalities, whose work and words unlocked the mystery of electricity and helped create the United States. "Write things worth reading," he said in "Poor Richard's Almanack," "or do things worth the writing." Benjamin Franklin did both.

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Cast & Crew See All

Peter Coyote
Narrator
Mandy Patinkin
Benjamin Franklin
Josh Lucas
William Franklin

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

Join or Die (1706-1774)

Mon, Apr 4, 2022115 mins

Benjamin Franklin leaves Boston and reinvents himself in Philadelphia where he builds a printing empire. Turning to science, his experiments in electricity earn him worldwide fame. In London, he tries to build relationships.

Where to Watch
Benjamin Franklin, Season 1 Episode 1 image

Featured Video

Benjamin Franklin: Exploring A Revolutionary Life
Benjamin Franklin: Exploring A Revolutionary Life
2:03
Watch Now

2:03 Benjamin Franklin: Exploring A Revolutionary Life

Trailers & Videos See All

Benjamin Franklin
0:31
Benjamin Franklin: Exploring A Revolutionary Life
2:03

Awards

  • 2022 - TCA Award - Outstanding Achievement in News and Information - nominated
  • 2023 - WGA Award (TV) - Documentary Script – Other Than Current Events - winner

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