DVD Review: Founding Fathers

Founding Fathers
[DVD 973.3 Fou Vol.1-4]

Here is a four-part miniseries from the History Channel broadcast in 2000 about the American Revolution, Volume One (one disc) and Volume Two (one disc). There are two episodes on each disc with each episode running approximately 50 minutes.

Narrated by Edward Herrmann this series follows the basic format we’ve come to know – actors reciting quotes along with faces of the subjects, newspapers, maps, and photos. A solid and interesting retelling of the characters and events leading up to the ratification of the US Constitution.

The first episode, “Rebels with a Cause” mostly covered Sam Adams and John Hancock though they are by no means the only topics discussed.

Episode Two, “Taking Liberties” focused on Patrick Henry and Benjamin Franklin.

Episode three, “You Say You Want a Revolution” discussed Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration of Independence, George Washington, his initial battles, Benjamin Franklin, and France. For Hamilton fans, there’s a short segment on him as well.

The fourth and final episode covered the constitutional convention, the creation of the US Constitution, and Washington’s presidency.

“We were very lucky we had a collection not only of genius and talent, but also of a disposition to use it for the public good and not to use it for the good of the men themselves. They did what they had to do and what they thought was right. And then they set up a system whereby the people would ultimately choose their leaders, and leaders would come and go but the system would remain.”

I enjoyed this series and plan to re-watch it. At 50-minutes per episode this was a quick history lesson. Be sure to get both volumes when checking out.

[ Internet Movie Database entry for this mini-series ]

Recommended by Charlotte M.
Bennett Martin Public Library – Public Services

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