Charleston Hosts Preview of Ken Burns’ Revolutionary Documentary

News Summary

Renowned filmmaker Ken Burns visited Charleston to showcase his upcoming documentary series, ‘The American Revolution.’ The six-part series, premiering on November 16, highlights South Carolina’s vital role in the Revolutionary War, including significant battles and contributions from local leaders. Burns aims to deepen Americans’ understanding of this pivotal era of history and its relevance to contemporary values.

Charleston Hosts Preview of Ken Burns’ Revolutionary Documentary

Charleston, South Carolina – Renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns recently visited Charleston to promote his upcoming six-part series, “The American Revolution.” This documentary, set to premiere on November 16, aims to highlight South Carolina’s significant yet often overlooked role in the Revolutionary War.

South Carolina’s Impact on Revolutionary History

Burns emphasized that South Carolina, along with New Jersey, was one of the two colonies that witnessed particularly violent battles during the Revolutionary War. Notably, it is estimated that one in five deaths on battlefields occurred in South Carolina, which hosted more battles and skirmishes than any other state during this tumultuous period. The documentary seeks to present a comprehensive view of the Southern colony’s crucial involvement in the fight for American independence from British rule.

Key Events in Charleston

A significant event highlighted in the documentary is the British capture of Charleston in 1780, a pivotal moment marked by a month-long siege that resulted in the surrender of over 5,000 Southern colonial soldiers. This loss represented a severe blow to the Continental Army and amplified the British’s confidence in their control over the Southern colonies.

The Role of Backcountry Fighters

To further illustrate the narrative, Burns focuses on the contributions of backcountry fighters such as Daniel Morgan, Thomas Sumter, and Francis Marion. These leaders played critical roles in reversing the British’s apparent hold on the war, showcasing how American resolve and strategy helped shift the momentum back in favor of the colonists.

Internal Conflicts During the Revolution

The documentary spans an eight-year narrative that encapsulates not only violent confrontations but also the internal conflicts between neighbors amidst the struggle for independence. This exploration of the dynamics within communities provides a layered understanding of what it meant to fight for freedom during that era.

A Vision for Cultural Reconnection

Burns expressed hope that the documentary will encourage Americans to reconnect with their historical roots. He believes that understanding the American Revolution is essential for appreciating contemporary values and civic responsibilities. Burns regards the American Revolution as the most important event in human history since the birth of Christ, describing it as a one-of-a-kind movement aimed at liberty and representation.

Production Journey and Challenges

The documentary series has been in production for nearly a decade. During the preview event, which included a press conference at the College of Charleston and a Q&A session, Burns spoke about the challenges surrounding the depiction of the 18th century. The absence of contemporary photographs and film footage necessitates creative approaches to narrate this critical era accurately.

Viewing Information and Accessibility

Viewers can watch “The American Revolution” on ETV, with streaming options available on PBS.org and through the PBS App. The release coincides with the approaching 250th anniversary of the war’s commencement, making the documentary timely for discussions surrounding this pivotal chapter in American history.

Through an inclusive blend of top-down and bottom-up historical narratives, the series strives to provide a well-rounded account of the American Revolution, facilitating greater recognition of South Carolina’s vital contributions.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Charleston Preview Event for Ken Burns’ Docuseries
Ken Burns Promotes New Documentary in Charleston
Ken Burns Previews ‘The American Revolution’ in Charleston
Charleston Prepares for Ken Burns’ Documentary Preview

Additional Resources

• ABC News 4
• New York Times
• Post and Courier
• History.com
• Count On 2
• Wikipedia: American Revolution
• Google Search: Ken Burns American Revolution
• Google Scholar: American Revolution
• Encyclopedia Britannica: American Revolution
• Google News: Ken Burns American Revolution