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.
- Metascore80
- 2025-2025
- 1 season
- PBS
- Documentary
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.
Season 1 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 2025
Episode 1
In Order to Be Free: (May 1754 - May 1775)
Sun, Nov 16, 2025 116 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.
Episode 2
An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 - July 1776)
Mon, Nov 17, 2025 116 mins
Congress puts George Washington in command of a new Continental Army; Congress declares American independence in July 1776.
Episode 3
The Times That Try Men's Souls (July 1776 - January 1777)
Tue, Nov 18, 2025 116 mins
The Revolution, now a war for American independence, faces its toughest challenge yet as General Washington tries to defend New York City from invasion by sea. The resulting Battle of Long Island is a huge defeat for the Americans, who narrowly escape and spend the next several months on the run. In late December, Washington's army regroups and prepares to attack an outpost in Trenton, New Jersey.
Episode 4
Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 - February 1778)
Wed, Nov 19, 2025 116 mins
As America braces for a third year of war, British commanders launch campaigns to take Albany and Philadelphia. General Howe beats General Washington at Brandywine and Germantown, while the Continental Congress flees Philadelphia. However, the Americans' victory over General Burgoyne at Saratoga opens the door for France to officially support the US.
Episode 5
The Soul of All America (December 1777 - May 1780)
Thu, Nov 20, 2025 116 mins
Washington's Continental Army emerges from the harsh winter at Valley Forge to fight the British Army in the inconclusive Battle of Monmouth. However, the alliance with France changes the war and moves it to other theatres, and armies advance into Indian Country and the southern states. Together, the British Army and Navy capture Charleston.
Episode 6
The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 - Onward)
Fri, Nov 21, 2025 116 mins
Victory at Yorktown guarantees independence. Americans seek to build a more perfect union.
