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Democracy as a Consequence

Ken Burns explores how democracy emerged not as a founding goal but as a byproduct of the American Revolution. While the founders initially envisioned a republic for elites, the sacrifices of ordinary soldiers — immigrants, laborers, and the disenfranchised — forced a broader stake in the new nation. The ideals of equality evolved from the brutal reality of war, not abstract intention.
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Clip Season 2025 Episode 1 Length 01:45 Premiere: 11/04/25

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Clips & Previews

Season 2025 A More Perfect Union Episodes

A More Perfect Union
S2025 E1 Length 55:05 Premiere Date 11/04/25

Trailer
Preview Length 00:30 Premiere Date 11/24/25

President as a Populist Office
Clip Length 00:53 Premiere Date 11/24/25

Screensaver
Clip Length 00:10 Premiere Date 11/24/25

Democracy as a Consequence
Clip Length 01:45 Premiere Date 11/04/25

The First Branch
Clip Length 00:50 Premiere Date 11/04/25

Evolving Citizenship
Clip Length 00:44 Premiere Date 11/04/25

Ken Burns: Why the American Revolution Still Matters
Clip Length 00:49 Premiere Date 11/04/25

Sarah Botstein: Why the American Revolution Still Matters
Clip Length 01:22 Premiere Date 11/04/25

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A More Perfect Union: Inspiring Civic & Civil Conversations Across America

A look at America's founding and how the ideas and values articulated 250 years ago remain relevant to conversations about governance today.

  • Monday April 27, 2026 10:00 pm ET on KET
  • Monday April 27, 2026 9:00 pm CT on KET
  • Wednesday April 29, 2026 4:00 am ET on KET
  • Wednesday April 29, 2026 3:00 am CT on KET

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