Ken Burns has unveiled a new documentary series shedding light on overlooked history from textbooks: the significant economic and diplomatic contributions of Indigenous nations during the American Revolution. Airing on PBS this week, “The American Revolution” highlights the Haudenosaunee Confederacy in Episode 1 as a key influence on Benjamin Franklin’s vision of unity among the 13 British colonies, predating the actual revolution by two decades.
According to Ken Burns, the Indigenous nations, including the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Tuscarora, Oneida, and Mohawk, had already grasped the concept of unity centuries ago, a lesson lost on the colonies due to their reluctance to cede autonomy. The 12-hour series, which took nearly a decade to produce, delves into the bloody conflicts over Indigenous land involving multiple nations, both European and Native American, with input from Indigenous consultants.
Despite initial reservations from Tuscarora historian Rick Hill, who expressed fatigue with big-budget productions, Ken Burns encourages viewers to reserve judgment until watching the entire series. Burns, renowned for documentaries like “The Civil War” and “The Vietnam War,” emphasized his commitment to accuracy in storytelling, influenced by his personal connection to Indigenous history through his grandparents’ discoveries during their honeymoon.
The documentary features a significant portrayal of Kanien’kehá:ka leader Joseph Brant, countering the derogatory language used by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson. The series also tackles the theme of divided loyalties and the enduring legacy of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, still active today. Rick Hill emphasized the critical importance of the Haudenosaunee narrative within the broader context of the American Revolution.
Jen Loren, a Cherokee consultant on the project, highlighted the early involvement of Indigenous advisors and praised Burns for accurately representing Indigenous leaders and diplomats from sovereign Native nations. She hopes the documentary will prompt greater inclusion of Native perspectives in film and media, acknowledging the ongoing journey towards comprehensive representation.
The release of “The American Revolution” comes at a pivotal moment, coinciding with efforts to preserve authentic historical narratives amidst attempts to distort or overlook Indigenous contributions. Hill underscored the documentary’s reflection on a history marked by betrayal and resilience, ultimately emphasizing the enduring strength of Indigenous culture and law.