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Watch a preview of a new six-part documentary series coming to PBS on November 16 from film directors and producers Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, which explores the country’s founding struggle and its eight-year War for Independence.

After the showing, listen to a panel discussion with Sarah Botstein and historian Rick Atkinson, moderated by Dr. Doug Bradburn, Mount Vernon President & CEO. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions. 

A book signing for Rick Atkinson's The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780, and reception with complimentary beer, wine, and hors-d'oeuvres will take place after the panel discussion. 

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General Public $60, Members $48

Get a First Look Into The American Revolution Documentary

The American Revolution examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down. Thirteen British colonies on the Atlantic Coast rose in rebellion, won their independence, and established a new form of government that radically reshaped the continent and inspired centuries of democratic movements around the globe.

Following nearly 200 historical figures from a variety of backgrounds, experience the virtues and contradictions of the war through their memories. The American Revolution allowed a path forward to advance civil liberties, human rights and better futures for the people.

The film was directed and produced by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, written by Geoffrey C. Ward, and narrated by Peter Coyote. The series will premiere on Sunday, November 16 and air for six consecutive nights through Friday, November 21 at 8 p.m. ET (check local listings) on PBS.

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Sarah Botstein

Sarah Botstein has produced some of the most popular and acclaimed documentaries on PBS. She produced and co-directed The American Revolution along with Ken Burns and David Schmidt. Her previous work includes Jazz, The War, Prohibition, The Vietnam War, College Behind Bars, and Hemingway. The U.S. and the Holocaust marked Botstein's debut as a co-director.

Rick Atkinson

Rick Atkinson is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of seven previous works of history, including The Long Gray Line, the Liberation Trilogy (An Army at Dawn, The Day of Battle, and The Guns at Last Light), and The British Are Coming, the first volume of the Revolution Trilogy. His numerous awards include Pulitzer Prizes for history and journalism.

250th Celebration of Washington Taking Command

Join us during the day in celebrating the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army and the historic moment when George Washington took command of the United States Army. 

Experience live patriotic music, a spectacular boat parade along the Potomac River, and a special presentation with the General’s majestic horses.

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