The American Revolution: PBS Books Filmmaker Talk

Join PBS Books for an in-depth Filmmaker Talk featuring filmmakers Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein and authors Geoffrey C. Ward and Rick Atkinson, who come together to explore the making of THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION — a landmark six-part documentary that examines how America's founding struggle reshaped the world. Hosted by Lauren Smith, this conversation dives deep into the themes, creative process, and personal reflections behind this epic documentary series, highlighting how these storytellers bring to life a wide variety of voices to show how the fight for independence was both personal and global.  

The American Revolution, directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, and written by Geoffrey C. Ward, is available on the PBS App. Check local listings for upcoming broadcast dates and times in your area. For more on the film and accompanying resources, please visit pbs.org/americanrevolution.  

Explore Our American Revolution Reading List 

Expand your understanding of the people, ideas, and events that shaped our nation.
PBS Books invites you to dive deeper into the world of the American Revolution with a curated reading list inspired by the landmark film series. 

This collection highlights nonfiction, fiction, and children's titles that bring history to life—from firsthand accounts and scholarly works to stories that explore the Revolution's lasting legacy through different lenses. Each title helps illuminate the human experiences behind America's founding struggle and the evolving meaning of liberty and democracy. 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, educator, or lifelong learner, these books will help you reflect on the values that continue to shape our nation today. 

Download and print the American Revolution Reading List

Corporate funding for The American Revolution was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine with the Crimson Lion Foundation; and the Blavatnik Family Foundation. Major funding was also provided by David M. Rubenstein; The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Family Foundation; Lilly Endowment Inc.; and the following Better Angels Society members: Eric and Wendy Schmidt; Stephen A. Schwarzman; and Kenneth C. Griffin with Griffin Catalyst. Additional support for The American Revolution was provided by: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The Pew Charitable Trusts; Gilbert S. Omenn and Martha A. Darling; Park Foundation; and the following Better Angels Society members: Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; The Michelson Foundation; Jacqueline B. Mars; Kissick Family Foundation; Diane and Hal Brierley; John H. N. Fisher and Jennifer Caldwell; John and Catherine Debs; The Fullerton Family Charitable Fund; Philip I. Kent; Gail Elden; Deborah and Jon Dawson; David and Susan Kreisman; The McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Becky and Jim Morgan; Carol and Ned Spieker; Mark A. Tracy; and Paul and Shelley Whyte. The American Revolution was made possible, in part, with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.