Thoreau Begins to Work with the Underground Railroad
In 1850, the U.S. Congress passes the Fugitive Slave Act, makes it legal for slave owners to reclaim any runaways, even those who had escaped to free states. The women of the Thoreau household had already been active in the Underground Railroad, but this new law spurs Thoreau into action, too. Thoreau gives an impassioned speech about the freedoms that all human beings deserve titled "Walking."
Recent Episodes
TV Schedules
Upcoming
Who Are We? - S1 E1
As the nation struggles with its ideals and industry reshapes the land, Henry David Thoreau pursues a career as an author. But, unsuccessful and disheartened, he retreats to a cabin in the woods to live simply, deliberately - and write.
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 2:00 am ET on KET
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 1:00 am CT on KET
Being Alive - S1 E2
At Walden Pond, Thoreau finds solace in nature and writes two books, including a classic about his time there. Over his two-year stay, an expedition to Maine and an act of civil disobedience protesting slavery reshape his idea of freedom.
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 3:00 am ET on KET
- Wednesday April 1, 2026 2:00 am CT on KET
Several More Lives to Live - S1 E3
Thoreau returns to society to test what he learned at Walden, taking on roles as surveyor, scientist and abolitionist, and making two more Maine trips - gaining deeper insights. Facing a lifelong illness, he writes with renewed urgency.
- Thursday April 2, 2026 2:00 am ET on KET
- Thursday April 2, 2026 1:00 am CT on KET
Recent
Several More Lives to Live - S1 E3
- Tuesday March 31, 2026 9:00 pm ET on KET
- Tuesday March 31, 2026 8:00 pm CT on KET
Being Alive - S1 E2
- Monday March 30, 2026 10:00 pm ET on KET
- Monday March 30, 2026 9:00 pm CT on KET
Who Are We? - S1 E1
- Monday March 30, 2026 9:00 pm ET on KET
- Monday March 30, 2026 8:00 pm CT on KET
