Official Trailer

31s

Ken Burns’s four-hour documentary, Benjamin Franklin, explores the revolutionary life of one of the 18th century’s most consequential figures, whose work and words unlocked the mystery of electricity and helped create the United States.

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Corporate funding for BENJAMIN FRANKLIN was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by David M. Rubenstein. Major funding was also provided by The Pew Charitable Trusts, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine; University of Pennsylvania; Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; Kissick Family Foundation; Deborah and Jon Dawson; Diane and Hal Brierley; McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Cappy and Janie McGarr; Lavender Butterfly Fund; and Susan and Charles Shanor Charitable Trust.

Watch • 1:54:59

Benjamin Franklin

“An American” (1775-1790)

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

Episode: S1 E2 | 1:54:59

Watch • 1:55:26

Benjamin Franklin

“Join or Die” (1706-1774)

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

Episode: S1 E1 | 1:55:26

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