Renowned filmmaker Ken Burns has unveiled a new documentary series shedding light on often overlooked aspects of American history: the significant economic and diplomatic contributions of sovereign Indigenous nations during the American Revolution.
Titled “The American Revolution,” the PBS series delves into the role of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy in inspiring Benjamin Franklin’s vision of unity among the 13 North American British colonies, two decades prior to the revolution. Burns emphasized the missed opportunity of the colonies to learn from the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Tuscarora, Oneida, and Mohawk nations’ centuries-old union due to their reluctance to relinquish autonomy.
Over nearly a decade in the making, the 12-hour documentary portrays the intense clashes over Indigenous lands involving numerous European and Native American nations, with input from Indigenous consultants. Tuscarora historian Rick Hill expressed initial skepticism but encouraged viewers to reserve judgment until viewing the entire series.
Highlighting the importance of accurate storytelling, Burns reflected on his lifelong passion for preserving historical truths, citing personal experiences such as his grandparents finding Native American artifacts. He underscored the need to acknowledge the territories of the 300 Indigenous nations that inhabited the U.S. before European settlement, challenging historical narratives that overlook Indigenous sovereignty.
Notably, the documentary showcases the pivotal role of Kanien’kehá:ka leader Joseph Brant, countering derogatory portrayals like Thomas Jefferson’s reference to “merciless Indian savages” in the Declaration of Independence. Burns stressed the necessity of integrating Native American narratives into mainstream historical education.
The series also explores the divided loyalties within Indigenous communities during the Revolutionary War, a period marked by betrayal and resilience. Rick Hill emphasized the enduring legacy of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and its ability to overcome internal conflicts through cultural values and traditional laws.
Moreover, Cherokee consultant Jen Loren, representing the Cherokee Nation, highlighted the documentary’s inclusive approach to Indigenous representation, showcasing Indigenous leaders and diplomats from sovereign Native nations alongside other major players in the conflict. Loren underscored the importance of continued efforts to enhance Native American inclusion in media and film.
As Burns’s documentary prompts a critical reexamination of American history, it serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities and the resilience that has preserved their cultural heritage to this day.