Season 1

Ken Burns's two-part, four-hour documentary, Benjamin Franklin, explores the revolutionary life of one of the 18th century's most consequential and compelling personalities, whose work and words unlocked the mystery of electricity and helped create the United States. "Write things worth reading," he said in "Poor Richard’s Almanack," "or do things worth the writing." Benjamin Franklin did both.

Video thumbnail: Benjamin Franklin “Join or Die” (1706-1774)

Benjamin Franklin

“Join or Die” (1706-1774)

After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.

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“Join or Die” (1706-1774)

Video thumbnail: Benjamin Franklin “An American” (1775-1790)

Benjamin Franklin

“An American” (1775-1790)

Benjamin Franklin helps craft the Declaration of Independence and wins French support.

GPB Passport

This video is currently available with GPB Passport.

“An American” (1775-1790)

Video thumbnail: Benjamin Franklin Spanish Version | “Join or Die” (1706-1774)

Benjamin Franklin

Spanish Version | “Join or Die” (1706-1774)

After success as a Philadelphia printer Benjamin Franklin earns worldwide fame in science.

GPB Passport

This video is currently available with GPB Passport.

Spanish Version | “Join or Die” (1706-1774)

Video thumbnail: Benjamin Franklin Spanish Version | “An American” (1775-1790)

Benjamin Franklin

Spanish Version | “An American” (1775-1790)

Benjamin Franklin helps craft the Declaration of Independence and wins French support.

GPB Passport

This video is currently available with GPB Passport.

Spanish Version | “An American” (1775-1790)