Freedom: A History of US | Independence

Episode 1 begins in the summer of 1776 as the thirteen colonies stake everything on an armed struggle for freedom and the chance to build a new kind of nation. Beginning with a look at the decision to declare independence with the escalating conflict with Great Britain, the episode includes the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride. America’s founding fathers such as George Washington, Samuel Adams, and Thomas Jefferson -- along with other well-known historical figures, including Abigail Adams and Tom Paine -- all play roles in the fight for liberty.

Freedom: A History of US explores the birth and growth of freedom in America over the centuries, as well as the tensions, conflicts, and triumphs that it has sparked. It is based on master storyteller Joy Hakim’s award winning 10-volume book set, A History of Us. For years, master storyteller Joy Hakim has excited millions of young minds with the great drama of American history. The 16 episodes, each approximately 25 minutes in length, are hosted by Katie Couric and feature commentary by Pulitzer Prize winning historian Eric Foner, author of The Story of American Freedom. Celebrity voices of historical characters were cast by the late actor Christopher Reeve. KFF provides accompanying resources for classroom use. As this series was produced in 2002, some of the terminology may not be current. These instances may provide interesting points of discussion in your classroom.

The landmark TV series, Freedom: A History of US, was first produced in 2002 by Kunhardt Productions and in 2022 was digitally remastered by the Kunhardt Film Foundation (KFF). KFF is a not-for-profit educational media organization that produces documentary films, interviews, and teaching tools about the people and ideas that shape our world.

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Chapter Markers:
Opening Credits: (0:00)
Trouble in the Colonies: (1:04)
Shot Heard 'Round the World: (6:11)
A Congress of Great Men: (8:47)
"To Begin the World Over Again": (14:01)
"All Men Are Created Equal": (16:18)
No Turning Back: (18:43)

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