Mo News Interview: Ken Burns On The Birth of American Democracy — and the Battles That Still Define It
Nov 14, 2025
Ken Burns, a celebrated documentary filmmaker known for monumental works like The Civil War, joins to discuss his new PBS series on The American Revolution. He reveals how the Revolution was not just about brilliant minds but also a tumultuous struggle for freedom. Burns compares past conflicts with today's divisions, emphasizing the importance of complex historical narratives. He explores the ideals behind democracy, warns against misinformation, and champions the need for civic responsibility. Through his lens, he offers a poignant view on America's ongoing journey toward greater democracy.
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History Rhymes With The Present
- Ken Burns argues present-day division rhymes with past conflicts like the Revolution and Vietnam rather than repeating them.
- Studying history arms us with perspective and intelligence to navigate current crises.
Revolution's Radical Global Impact
- Burns calls the American victory improbable and globally consequential, sparking centuries of revolutions.
- The Declaration's claim of universal rights opened doors far beyond its authors' immediate intentions.
The Power Of A Single Word
- Jefferson's phrase 'all men are created equal' originally targeted propertied white men but the word 'all' later expanded its meaning.
- That linguistic opening set a trajectory for later inclusion movements.
