The Revolution
That Shaped a Nation
Exploring New York's pivotal role in the fight for American independence — and the 250 years of progress that followed.
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This initiative is made possible through funding from the New York State Education Department, Office of Cultural Education as part of the NYS 250th Commemoration Commission. WMHT is proud to serve as a regional educational television partner, working in collaboration with community organizations and cultural education institutions to bring this history to life.
Field Trip Visits the American Revolution
WMHT invites viewers back to the Revolutionary Era in a special extended episode of WMHT's beloved series FIELD TRIP. Hosts Matt and Nicole will journey through the region's most significant battle sites, bringing history to life like never before.
Henry Knox: Resolve Forged by Revolution
In the winter of 1775 & 1776, hope for a free America was chilled by the British occupation of Boston. One patriot led a dangerous journey cloaked in uncertainty, navigating snow, mountains and doubt to move the "Noble Train of Artillery." Experience the courage, conviction, and spirit that liberated Boston and inspires an enduring legacy 250 years later. This is the Story of Henry Knox!
Defining Freedom: An American Revolution
America is obsessed with freedom. And a good story. Since the United States founding, we've enjoyed the narrative that America has always stood as a bastion of liberty. It's a good story...if it were entirely true. In this audio special from WMHT Public Media and PBS, we explore the hidden history behind America's quest for freedom. Produced in companion to KEN BURNS'S THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
Corporate funding for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine with the Crimson Lion Foundation; and the Blavatnik Family Foundation. Major funding was also provided by David M. Rubenstein; The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Family Foundation; Lilly Endowment Inc.; and the following Better Angels Society members: Eric and Wendy Schmidt; Stephen A. Schwarzman; and Kenneth C. Griffin with Griffin Catalyst. Additional support for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The Pew Charitable Trusts; Gilbert S. Omenn and Martha A. Darling; Park Foundation; and the following Better Angels Society members: Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; The Michelson Foundation; Jacqueline B. Mars; Kissick Family Foundation; Diane and Hal Brierley; John H. N. Fisher and Jennifer Caldwell; John and Catherine Debs; The Fullerton Family Charitable Fund; Philip I. Kent; Gail Elden; Deborah and Jon Dawson; David and Susan Kreisman; The McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Becky and Jim Morgan; Carol and Ned Spieker; Mark A. Tracy; and Paul and Shelley Whyte. THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was made possible, in part, with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Promotional material for Defining Freedom includes footage from Field Trip Visits the American Revolution and The Library of Congress.
MUSIC CREDIT
From The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi
Live, Unedited performance
Wiedemann Recital Hall, Wichita State University
John Harrison – Violin | Robert Turizziani – Conductor
The Wichita State University Chamber Players
https://johnharrison.cc
The American Revolution
Thirteen American colonies unite in rebellion, win an eight-year war to secure their independence, and establish a new form of government that would inspire democratic movements at home and around the globe. What begins as a political clash between colonists and the British government grows into a bloody struggle that will engage more than two dozen nations and forever change the world.
In Order to Be Free
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.
An Asylum for Mankind
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
The Times That Try Men's Souls
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
Conquer by a Drawn Game
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
The Soul of All America
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
The Most Sacred Thing
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
Tapestry of New York
WNET, New York's flagship public media station, is launching Tapestry of New York — a new online platform showcasing the creative work of New York students in honor of America's 250th anniversary.
The platform will feature artwork and media created by K–12 students across the state, reflecting their unique views on the American Revolution and the "unfinished revolutions" that followed. Submissions may include collages, drawings, paintings, photography, graphics, videos, and more.
This American Revolution Uniform Survived 250 Years!
Join Matt and Nicole on a Field Trip to the Thompson-Pell Research Center at Fort Ticonderoga. Guided by historian Dr. Matthew Keagle, they explore rare Revolutionary War-era artifacts and documents that reveal how people lived, worked, and recorded history during the fight for independence.
Education Materials & Resources
Free, curriculum-aligned resources for teachers, librarians, and education partners to use with learners to commemorate America's 250th.
Teach The American Revolution at 250 Years
More than 35 free, curriculum-aligned classroom resources for grades 3–12, designed to deepen students' understanding of the American Revolution and its legacies using the power of visual media. Explore classroom resources, professional learning events, the Youth Media Challenge, and more from the Ken Burns documentary series.
Explore ResourcesHistory of the United States and New York
Free PBS LearningMedia resources designed to complement the New York State Social Studies Framework for Grades 4, 7, and 8. Media-rich resources aligned with key ideas for each grade level, with Grades 4 and 7 featuring sections on the American Revolution.
Browse CollectionNYSED Educator Resources
Free educator resources from the New York State Education Department to support teaching and learning around New York's role in the American Revolution and the 250th commemoration.
Visit NYSEDFind 250th Events
Near You
Discover exhibitions, reenactments, lectures, and community celebrations happening across New York State. The I Love NY 250 Calendar is your guide to commemorative events from the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks and everywhere in between.
Browse the CalendarJoin the Conversation
Learn more at nysm.nysed.gov/revolutionaryny250 · america250.org