The American Revolution Classroom Collection Is Here!

The American Revolution, the newest documentary series from filmmakers Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, examines how 13 colonies on the Atlantic Coast united in rebellion, won their independence, and established a republic that still endures. Bring this landmark series into your classroom with our NEW collection of more than 35 FREE, curriculum-aligned classroom resources, developed by educators, vetted by experts, and drawn from content in the film!

Aligned to five commonly taught topic areas, these classroom resources and student-facing interactives are designed to build students’ critical thinking skills, including their abilities to think in terms of cause and effect and to analyze primary sources. Each resource is anchored by an essential question and features video clips from the film, teaching tips, and discussion questions for deeper classroom engagement. Find a sampling of the media-rich resources below or head to the full collection to explore the wide breadth of content.

Life in the British Colonies

What was it like to live in 18th-century North America? Explore the daily lives, economies, and demographics that defined the 13 British colonies before the war for independence. These resources also help students learn more about Native nations before the American Revolution, as well as the complex relationships that existed between Native peoples and colonists.

Causes of the American Revolution

Help your students understand the political, economic, and societal factors that led the colonies to declare their independence from Great Britain. These classroom resources will encourage them to explore the precipitating events that played significant roles in igniting a revolution.

Key Events of the Revolutionary Era

Your students probably know about a foundational document called the Declaration of Independence, but how familiar are they with the impact of disease on the Revolutionary War? Use these engaging materials to investigate the key events leading up to and during the American Revolution, as well as to study the major turning points, key battles, and the policies that impacted the course and outcome of the American Revolution.

Key Figures and Ideas of the Revolutionary Era

From political figures John and Abigail Adams to Black Patriots such as James Forten, introduce your students to key figures of the Revolutionary era in exciting new ways! These resources will also help them dive into the core ideals that emerged during this time period, such as liberty, freedom, the foundations of democracy, and the establishment of a democratic republic.

Consequences and Legacies of the Revolutionary Era

Help your students understand the lasting legacies of the American Revolution, such as the core ideas of liberty, freedom, independence, equality, and democracy, and what makes this time period still relevant today. Your students will analyze the ways in which the promises of the American Revolution have been fulfilled, as well as the ways in which they continue to evolve — 250 years after the country’s founding.

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