1776. American Independence
What begins as a tax revolt erupts into a world-shaking revolution. This series follows the struggle for American independence as it spirals into a global conflict. We follow well known characters such as John Adams and George Washington as well as the stories of both freed and enslaved African Americans and First Nation Peoples. From crushing defeats to secret diplomacy, from betrayals to bold new ideals, this series reveals how the American Revolution became a battle for liberty on many fronts, one that shattered old orders, forged a new nation, and changed the course of history forever.
For the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this incredible six-part retelling, goes far beyond the 13 original colonies and the clash between American Patriots and British colonial troops. We traverse the Atlantic and plunge deep into the American Colonies to discover a multi-front war that engulfed a diverse cast of characters.
Episodes
Episode 1: Unlikely Revolutionaries
We begin by profiling three unlikely revolutionaries: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams.
Episode 2: Revolution in Indian Country
When fighting breaks out between Britain and the American colonists, the native people of North America are forced to pick a side.
Episode 3: The slaves’ Revolution
The American War for Independence was, in fact, two revolutions in one. There was the Revolution we know – of American Patriots against their British overlords. And there was the Revolution we don’t know – of enslaved Black people against their American overlords
Episode 4: A Poor Man’s Fight
We tell the story of one of the first large battles in Manhattan and kips bay as this newly formed army struggles to fight the world’s largest empire
Episode 5: Remember The Ladies
As men march off to war, a number of women make their case to be heard and included. We tell the story of Abigail Adams, the feminist wife of John Adams, who writes a series of radical letters, advocating for improved conditions and political rights for women.
Episode 6: A New World
The final episode examines how the final years of the Revolution shaped Britain and the global balance of power as the United States enters the game of empires.
Credits
Associate Producer: Matt King
Head of Post Production: Tim Raggett
Head of Production: Yasmine Weber
Re-Recording Mixer: Rich Evans