The American Revolution

The American Revolution

show

2007

WISE
76%

WISE Score

A massive 13-part deep dive into the birth of the U.S. narrated by the soothing, authoritative voice of Edward Herrmann.

Where to Watch
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Screenwise Verdict

This is the 'gold standard' of mid-2000s history docs. It’s thorough, covering everything from the Boston Massacre to the final treaty. If your kid is actually interested in how the U.S. came to be, this is a comprehensive resource that respects their intelligence.

But let’s be real: it’s nearly 20 years old. It has that slow, deliberate History Channel pace that might feel like a chore for a kid raised on high-speed YouTube edits. It’s best used as a supplement for school or for a kid who is already a history buff, rather than a Friday night family movie pick.

Age Fit

Best for kids 9 and up. Younger kids will likely find the documentary format and the heavy focus on political strategy quite boring, but it's a goldmine for middle schoolers.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
78

It is a standard, respectful historical documentary. It doesn't lean into sensationalism or shock value, preferring a steady, educational tone.

Imaginative
55

As a traditional documentary, it focuses on facts and reenactments rather than creative world-building, though it does help kids visualize the 18th century.

Safe
82

Includes battle reenactments with muskets and cannons. While there is mention of death and war, it lacks the graphic gore found in modern R-rated war films.

Enriching
94

Top-tier for building background knowledge. It covers the political, social, and military aspects of the revolution with immense detail.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Edward Herrmann's narration provides a steady, engaging anchor that makes complex political maneuvers easier to follow.
  • The 13-episode scope allows the show to cover often-ignored events beyond just the 'greatest hits' like Lexington and Yorktown.
  • It is a massive boost for background knowledge, helping kids connect the dots for history class without feeling like they are being lectured.
  • The use of primary sources—letters and journals—gives a human face to the historical figures.
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What to Watch For

  • The pacing is very 2007; it uses the 'Ken Burns' style of slow pans over paintings and talking heads which can feel like a slog for kids used to faster edits.
  • Battle reenactments involve smoke, falling soldiers, and some blood, though it remains within TV-PG territory.
  • It is long. Expecting a kid to binge all 13 episodes is a big ask; it's better consumed in chunks related to what they are curious about.

Conversation Starters

  • "If you were living in 1775, do you think you would have been a Patriot or a Loyalist?"
  • "Why do you think the French decided to help the Americans, and would the revolution have succeeded without them?"
  • "The show mentions how long it took for news to travel back then—how would the war have been different with instant communication?"
  • "Which of the 'Founding Fathers' seemed the most like a real person to you, rather than just a statue?"
Stills
The American Revolution — still 1
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