Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Violence, drinking, smoking in brilliant myth-busting docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The American Revolution
What's the Story?
Executive-produced by Ken Burns and narrated by Peter Coyote, THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION is a six-part docuseries about colonial America's long, bloody, complicated fight to win its independence from British rule. Told through the experiences of Native Americans, African Americans, colonial leaders, British loyalists, and members of the militia, each episode offers a detailed and insightful chronicle of the events that eventually led to the formation of a new and democratic nation. Historians and scholars offer their insights about the political and economic conditions that led to the colonial rebellion and how, over eight years, it grew into a multinational event that inspired democratic movements around the world. Experts also challenge many of the popular myths about the revolution that have shaped national memory over generations, and point out how the fight for freedom did not eradicate the social and economic ideologies that supported slavery and the annihilation of Indigenous peoples. Throughout it all, stories about the spirit, courage, and sacrifices of the colonists throughout the revolutionary period are told. Illustrations, paintings, and brief reenactments document the period, while an extensive roster of prominent actors like Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson, Claire Danes, Jeff Daniels, Paul Giamatti, and Kenneth Branagh lend their voices to bring the words of those who witnessed the events to life.
Is It Any Good?
From the early taxation of the 13 American colonies to the horrifically violent battles fought by militia groups and the Continental Army, the brilliant docuseries offers interpretations of the American Revolution that are educational and powerful. Co-directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, the 12-hour production deconstructs the complicated and harsh realities of the American colonists' fight for sovereignty, which differ from—and often contradict—the historical narratives about the revolution that have been reinforced nationally and globally. Folks may be surprised by the perspectives offered here, such as the fact that the Revolutionary War was also a civil war between Americans divided between British loyalists (or Tories) and colonial patriots, or that there's no evidence that the red, white, and blue colonial flag, often seen in famous artistic renderings of American independence, was ever flown by the Continental Army in battle.
Throughout it all, The American Revolution also discusses the role of women, free Black men, and Native Americans in the war, and profiles often-overlooked figures who made vital contributions in this fight for freedom. None of this detracts from the monumental commitment and courage colonists displayed during this time, and how, despite all odds, they were able to defeat the British and build a foundation for what the United States is today. If you love history, you'll appreciate what's being offered here.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the ways stories about U.S. history become more mythical than factual over time. Burns has said, "Nobody in the film says, 'Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes.' The name Betsy Ross is not mentioned. We're not confident enough about Nathan Hale's final words to say, 'I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.'" How does it affect your understanding of U.S. history that Burns deliberately avoids addressing such commonly held "truths" about the American Revolution?
Are you surprised by some of the historical details offered in The American Revolution? Which one stands out the most?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 16, 2025
- Cast : Peter Coyote , Tom Hanks , Meryl Streep
- Network : PBS
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : History ( War: Other )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : December 5, 2025
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