The American Revolution poster

TV series

The American Revolution

2025TV-PG1 season5.9 / 10

The American Revolution was at once a war for independence, a war of conquest, a civil war, and a world war, fought by neighbors on American farms and between global powers an ocean or more away. It impacted millions from Vermont’s Green Mountains to the swamps of South Carolina, from Indian Country to the Iberian Peninsula. In defeating the British Empire and giving birth to a new nation, the American Revolution turned the world upside-down. Thirteen colonies on the Atlantic Coast united in rebellion, won their independence, and established a republic that still endures. The American Revolution will present the story of the men and women of the Revolutionary generation, their humanity in victory and defeat, and the crisis that they lived through.

Streaming, rental and purchase options

Where to watch in United States

Checked Jul 22, 2026

The American Revolution is available to stream on Hoopla in United States. You can also buy it from Amazon, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Use the direct links below to open the provider.

Availability and prices can change. Confirm the details on the streaming service before you subscribe, rent or buy.

Synopsis

The American Revolution was at once a war for independence, a war of conquest, a civil war, and a world war, fought by neighbors on American farms and between global powers an ocean or more away. It impacted millions from Vermont’s Green Mountains to the swamps of South Carolina, from Indian Country to the Iberian Peninsula. In defeating the British Empire and giving birth to a new nation, the American Revolution turned the world upside-down. Thirteen colonies on the Atlantic Coast united in rebellion, won their independence, and established a republic that still endures. The American Revolution will present the story of the men and women of the Revolutionary generation, their humanity in victory and defeat, and the crisis that they lived through.

Season 1 episodes

Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.

Episode 1

In Order to Be Free (May 1754 – May 1775)

Opposition in colonial North America to British policies over taxes, land and sovereignty escalates into violent confrontation; war gives 13 colonies a common cause.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode 2

An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 – July 1776)

Congress puts George Washington in command of a new Continental Army; Congress declares American independence in July 1776.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode 3

The Times That Try Men's Souls (July 1776 – January 1777)

British General Howe defeats General Washington, forcing the Americans to abandon New York; Washington's army regroups in New Jersey before attacking an outpost at Trenton.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode 4

Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 – February 1778)

General Howe takes Philadelphia, but the Americans' surprising victory over General Burgoyne at Saratoga encourages France to support the U.S.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode 5

The Soul of All America (December 1777 – May 1780)

The French-American alliance changes the war and moves it to other theaters; navies battle off England and in the Caribbean, while armies advance in Indian Country and the South; the British take Charleston.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode 6

The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 – Onward)

British General Cornwallis struggles to pacify the southern states; supported by the French, a victory at Yorktown secures independence for the Americans.

Where to watch The American Revolution

Episode information updated Jul 22, 2026

More about The American Revolution

Cast

Peter CoyoteNarrator (voice)
Adam ArkinJames Parker / Ashbel Green / Andrew Hunter / Enoch Anderson / Timothy Dwight / Robert Morris (voice)
Josh BrolinGeorge Washington (voice)
Josh CharlesJoseph Warren / John Peters / David Ramsey (voice)
Hugh DancyHugh Percy / John Burgoyne / Banastre Tarleton / Comte de Vergennes (voice)
Claire DanesAbigail Adams (voice)
Alden EhrenreichJoseph Plumb Martin (voice)
Craig FergusonJohn Murray / John Jones / John Purrier / Martin Hunter / William Harcourt (voice)

Credits

Created by
Ken Burns
Written by
Geoffrey C. Ward

Production details

Status
Ended
Series type
Miniseries
Episodes
6
Original language
English

Networks & production

  • PBSUnited States
  • Florentine FilmsUnited States
  • WETAUnited States

Themes

americaamerican historyamerican revolutionapologeticdetacheddocumentaryembarrassedhistory