Ken Burns Discusses ‘The American Revolution’ Amid PBS Budget Cuts
Ken Burns is set to release his new docuseries, *The American Revolution*, on PBS, premiering on November 16. This project explores the complexities of the American Revolution, presenting both lofty ideals and harsh realities, co-directed with Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt. Burns describes the series as an ambitious undertaking that highlights the contradictions of democracy, framed within the context of America’s current political climate.
Exploring American History Through a Modern Lens
The filming of *The American Revolution* took over a decade and cost approximately $30 million. Burns expresses his belief that the looming PBS budget cuts could threaten the future of such impactful documentaries. He notes that many of his past projects relied on funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, highlighting the danger of losing crucial media sources in underserved communities.
The Challenges of Historical Documentation
Unlike previous films where extensive visual resources were available, *The American Revolution* faced scarcity of historical documents. This challenge forced Burns and his team to be innovative in their storytelling. He revealed that they utilized unique watercolors and reenactments to bring the events of the 18th century to life. While skeptical about the use of reenactors in the past, Burns found their commitment to authenticity compelling.
Significant Historical Moments
- George Washington’s Retreat: The series portrays Washington’s significant retreat from Brooklyn after the *Battle of Long Island*, a pivotal moment in the revolution.
- Statue of King George III: Burns recounts how early American patriots violently dismantled a statue of the king, repurposing the metal into bullets.
- Contemporary Resonance: Burns draws parallels between historical events and modern society, noting themes like pandemics and governance that echo today’s challenges.
The series aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of revered figures like George Washington, moving past myths into their authentic narratives. Burns emphasizes the importance of presenting their complexities, including their flaws and political maneuvering.
Implications of Budget Cuts on PBS
The impending budget cuts to PBS pose a significant concern for Burns and others in the public broadcasting landscape. They threaten not only the viability of future projects but also access to reliable media for communities that depend on PBS for essential services, news, and educational programming.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the significance of the revolution, Burns expresses hope for *The American Revolution* to inspire viewers to contemplate their history and its relevance today. As he combines passion with profound insights, this docuseries promises to enrich the audience’s understanding of American history.
