The American Revolution (PBS Documentary 2025)

[Huntn]

Really good if you like US history. In Episode 3, after the Battle of Long Island, it’s kind of amazing the US prevailed. Clearly the rebels are out numbered in a standup fight.

 

[Richard8655]

All 6 consecutive episodes were outstanding.

I wonder how many people actually watch thoughtful documentaries on PBS like this. I particularly liked (last episode, I think) concerns that an "unprincipled" leader might emerge, becoming a demagogue.

 

[Certificate of Excellence]

All 6 consecutive episodes were outstanding.

I wonder how many people actually watch thoughtful documentaries on PBS like this. I particularly liked (last episode, I think) concerns that an "unprincipled" leader might emerge, becoming a demagogue.

My parents recorded this so my wife n I could watch it. They remarked that Washington gambled with land speculators dependent on the outcome of the war and they never knew that - wasn’t taught in school that general and soon to be President Washington was a gambler lol. This sort of information is so valuable in bringing questionable morality (lol) & humanity back to historical figures who are in many ways painted as morally perfect and bigger than life.

When we have some time, my wife n I will dig into the series. They said it was absolutely fantastic and brought ALOT of new information that filled in their understanding. They spoke of Tomas Paine as well, one of my own favorites of that era. Can’t wait to dig in.

 

[Richard8655]

My parents recorded this so my wife n I could watch it. They remarked that Washington gambled with land speculators dependent on the outcome of the war and they never knew that - wasn’t taught in school that general and soon to be President Washington was a gambler lol. This sort of information is so valuable in bringing questionable morality (lol) & humanity back to historical figures who are in many ways painted as morally perfect and bigger than life.

When we have some time, my wife n I will dig into the series. They said it was absolutely fantastic and brought ALOT of new information that filled in their understanding. They spoke of Tomas Paine as well, one of my own favorites of that era. Can’t wait to dig in.

Well said and good points. Washington wasn't completely the heroic figure (as you mentioned) we're taught in schools. He was a wealthy landowner with slaves (as most of the other founders) and made much of his fortune through marriage and speculating in land (that was supposed to be reserved for indigenous nations).

Yes, you both should watch this as we will again as available through the PBS app.