Documentary filmmaker and historian Ken Burns has dedicated his career to bringing the complexities of history to the forefront. In a revealing interview on “Meet the Press” that aired on Sunday, Burns critiqued the widely accepted narratives surrounding America’s founding and the Revolutionary War. He emphasizes that history has often been sanitized out of a fear that acknowledging its darker aspects could undermine the foundational ideals born in Philadelphia in 1776.
With over 50 years in documentary filmmaking, Burns gained widespread recognition with his landmark 1990 series “The Civil War,” which earned him prestigious accolades, including two Emmys, two Grammys, and a Peabody Award. His latest endeavor, a six-part documentary titled “The American Revolution,” has been a labor of love since he began working on it in 2015. In this series, Burns delves into America’s origins, arguing that democracy emerged not from a systematic design but as an unexpected result of the Revolutionary War.
He explains that the initial intent was to establish a ruling class of white male property owners, yet the reality was far more complex. Many who fought were from diverse backgrounds, including teenagers, ex-convicts hoping for pardons, and recent immigrants. According to Burns, these individuals were pivotal in shaping democracy as we know it today.
In his characteristic style, Burns draws connections between the past and present, offering insights that resonate with current societal divisions. He points out that while today’s political climate feels tumultuous, historical precedents demonstrate that America has experienced even deeper schisms during events like the Civil War and the Vietnam War.
Burns passionately advocates for inclusivity in telling historical narratives, stressing that the omission of voices from women, Native Americans, and African Americans results in an incomplete understanding of history. He believes that a more comprehensive retelling enhances the larger themes rather than detracts from them.
Burns also commented on the potential threats to democracy, suggesting that the founders of the nation would be disillusioned by the current concentration of power and Congress’s reduction of its authority.
Known for his distinctive documentary style that includes the famous “Ken Burns effect” — a technique that animates still photographs — Burns expressed his concerns about the increasing role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. He hopes it serves only as a research tool rather than a replacement for genuine storytelling.
Further, Burns addressed the significant budget cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, warning about the implications for public media and local journalism. With these cuts reducing funding by over $1 billion, he fears for the future of independent filmmakers and the vital coverage of local events that smaller stations provide.
Despite these challenges, Burns maintains a hopeful outlook, asserting that “history is our best teacher.” He remains optimistic about America’s future, citing his experiences in his small New Hampshire town where diverse viewpoints spur meaningful dialogue. He believes that the existing frameworks for discussion and repair within the political system are key to navigating current challenges.