Ken Burns‘ landmark documentary arrives this month. The American Revolution premieres on PBS Nov. 16. It’s a sweeping 12-hour, six-part series. The directors explore how America’s founding transformed the world.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- 6-part, 12-hour documentary directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt
- Premieres Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025 at 8/7c on PBS
- Narrated by Peter Coyote with celebrity voice performances
- Written by acclaimed historian Geoffrey C. Ward
- Includes stories from rank-and-file soldiers, Loyalists, enslaved Americans, and indigenous peoples
What Happened: Epic Production Brings Revolution to Screen
Ken Burns spent over a decade crafting this ambitious historical epic. The filmmakers examined how 13 British colonies united in rebellion. They won independence and established a radically new government.
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The documentary follows dozens of figures from all backgrounds and experiences. Viewers encounter perspectives often overlooked in traditional history. Peter Coyote’s narration guides audiences through eight years of revolution and transformation.
“The American Revolution examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down.”
Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt co-directed this project alongside Burns. The three collaborated to create visually stunning sequences. They combined archival materials and immersive historical imagery.
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This documentary reaches viewers right when American democracy needs context. The American Revolution doesn’t shy away from contradictions. It shows war’s brutal violence and the revolution’s incomplete promises.
The series follows stories beyond famous Founding Fathers. You’ll hear from Continental soldiers who were teenagers. African Americans, enslaved and free, reveal their participation. Indigenous peoples and German soldiers share their experiences.
The film asks questions still relevant today: What does freedom mean? Who belonged in the new nation? How do we honor a revolution built on contradictions? These themes resonate with modern audiences grappling with national identity.
The Details: Scope, Timeline, and Distribution
The American Revolution unfolds across six episodes totaling 12 hours. Each episode examines different phases and perspectives. Geoffrey C. Ward’s script draws from letters, diaries, and historical records.
| Program Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Air Date | Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025 |
| Time | 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT |
| Network | PBS and most PBS stations |
| Director(s) | Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, David Schmidt |
| Narrator | Peter Coyote |
| Writer | Geoffrey C. Ward |
| Format | 6 parts, 12 hours total |
| Streaming | PBS.org, PBS app, Prime Video, and Roku |
PBS.org will stream the documentary after broadcast. The free PBS app offers access on multiple devices: iPhone, Apple TV, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and smart TVs. PBS Passport provides extended content and behind-the-scenes materials.
What To Watch For: Six Episodes, Six Perspectives
- Look for how directors blend famous biographical stories with ordinary people’s voices
- Notice the immersive visual storytelling techniques typical of Ken Burns documentaries
- Expect deep exploration of slavery, Native American displacement, and revolutionary contradictions
- Watch for voice performances by celebrities reading historical letters and speeches
- See how the series connects Revolutionary War events to modern democratic questions
Will This Documentary Change How You See American History?
Ken Burns brings his signature style to America’s founding struggle. For over 30 years, he’s created masterpiece documentaries. The Civil War, Baseball, Vietnam—all became cultural touchstones.
The American Revolution promises the same depth and emotional impact. It’s a moment to experience the complex, messy, inspiring story of the nation’s birth. The series doesn’t celebrate without questioning. It doesn’t simplify without losing truth.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, Nov. 16. Settle in for a 12-hour journey through one of history’s defining moments. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or casual viewer, this epic demands attention. Will this documentary finally tell the full story of who really made the Revolution?
Official Trailer
Watch the official trailer below:
Sources
- PBS Official – Complete series information and streaming details
- NPR – Coverage of overlooked Revolutionary War voices and perspectives
- Newsweek – Ken Burns discusses the project as his “most important” work yet
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.