Ken Burns

Ken Burns, a renowned documentary filmmaker celebrated for works like "The Civil War" and "The Vietnam War," discusses his trajectory in filmmaking and the emotional depth of historical narratives. He sheds light on the role of storytelling in education, urging for diverse voices in understanding American identity. Burns also reflects on the complexities of historical figures and the impact of nature on humanity. He touches upon baseball as a unifying force, and delves into the legacies of boxing legends Johnson and Ali, connecting their stories to broader themes of race and power.

Ken Burns, the acclaimed documentary filmmaker known for his deep dives into American history, joins the conversation to discuss his latest work on the American Revolution. He connects historical moments to today's political landscape, emphasizing the importance of a strong legislature and civic education. Burns shares insights on countering historical revisionism and the value of telling complex, inclusive stories. He also reflects on the power of music to convey universal truths, using country songs as a metaphor for honesty in storytelling.

Ken Burns, America's documentarian renowned for his films on pivotal moments like the Civil War, shares insights on the American Revolution. He discusses how democracy wasn't initially a goal of the fighting, reflecting on today's political tensions mirroring past struggles. Burns emphasizes the power of storytelling as a means to navigate contemporary challenges and highlights the importance of resilience and community in shaping national identity. Ultimately, he poses a thought-provoking choice between living in a world of despair or one of hope.

Ken Burns, a celebrated documentary filmmaker known for his profound explorations of American history, discusses his new project on the American Revolution. He delves into the mixed motives behind the revolutionaries and how Enlightenment ideals fueled their movement. Burns examines the complexities of America’s founding, balancing inspiration with historical injustices. He warns that increasing executive power presents a significant threat to democracy today and emphasizes the need for a nuanced, nonpartisan origin story to foster unity.

Ken Burns, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker renowned for his historical works, discusses his latest PBS series about Benjamin Franklin. He delves into Franklin’s transformation from a runaway teen to an innovative leader, highlighting lessons in collaboration and creativity for today's leaders. Burns also shares insights on his team's process in crafting impactful storytelling, the complexities of Franklin's legacy, and the importance of navigating moral evolution, all while reflecting on the role of documentary in shaping public understanding.