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The American Revolution

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, a new six-part, 12-hour documentary directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down.

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Cast & Crew See All

Peter Coyote
Narrator
Adam Arkin
Private Ashbel Green
Kenneth Branagh
General Friedrich Adolf Riedesel

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

In Order to Be Free: (May 1754 - May 1775)

Sun, Nov 16, 2025116 mins

Opposition in colonial North America to British policies over taxes, land and sovereignty escalates into violent confrontation. War gives 13 colonies a common cause.

Where to Watch

Featured Video

The American Revolution
The American Revolution
2:20

2:20 The American Revolution

Awards

  • 2025 - Critics' Choice Documentary Award - Best Historical Documentary - winner
  • 2025 - Critics' Choice Documentary Award - Best Narration - nominated
  • 2025 - Critics' Choice Documentary Award - Best Limited Documentary Series - nominated

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