Experience Ken Burns’ The American Revolution: a sweeping story of independence, civil war, and global struggle, presented by Florida Atlantic University Libraries in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Dr. Jason Sharples, Associate Professor of History at Florida Atlantic University, will open both screenings with a brief introduction that situates the film within the broader context of early American empires, Indigenous peoples, and revolutionary conflict.

Day 1: Tuesday, February 3rd

• In Order to Be Free (May 1754 – May 1775): Escalation of colonial opposition to British policies, leading to the first shots of the war.
• An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 – July 1776): Washington takes command and Congress declares independence.
• The Times That Try Men’s Souls (July 1776 – January 1777): Washington’s defeats in New York, retreat across New Jersey, and the pivotal victories at Trenton and Princeton.

Day 2: Thursday, February 5th

• Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 – February 1778): The British capture Philadelphia, but American victory at Saratoga secures the French alliance.
• The Soul of All America (December 1777 – May 1780): The war expands to the South and includes the winter at Valley Forge.
• The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 – onward): The Southern Campaign culminates in Yorktown, securing independence and pointing toward a more perfect union.