WNMU-TV will host a preview screening and panel discussion related to "The American Revolution," a new Ken Burns six-part, 12-hour documentary series that explores the country's founding struggle and its eight-year War for Independence. The screening is open to the public and takes place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, in the Northern Center Ballrooms on Northern Michigan University's campus.
"This opportunity to learn about the founding of the United States' democracy is brought to you as part of NMU's commitment to expand opportunities for civic learning and community engagement by staff, faculty and students," said Tammy Wixtrom Johnson of WNMU public media. "This is one of the strategies outlined in Our Compass, NMU's strategic plan."
Hosting the event for WNMU-TV is Jim Koski. The three panelists leading the discussion and question segment are the following NMU faculty and staff members: Carter Wilson, professor and department head, Political Science & Public Administration; Emily Romeo, assistant professor, History; and Justin Schapp, assistant director of KCP grant administration and faculty/staff initiatives, Office of Opportunity, Empowerment & People.
This screening event gives a preview of "The American Revolution," which has been in production for eight years. It was directed and produced by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, and written by longtime collaborator Geoffrey C. Ward. The series premieres Sunday, Nov. 16 and airs for six consecutive nights through Friday, Nov. 21 from 8-10:00 p.m. ET on WNMU-TV.
According to a synopsis, it examines how America's founding turned the world upside-down. Thirteen British colonies on the Atlantic Coast rose in rebellion, won their independence, and established a new form of government that radically reshaped the continent and inspired centuries of democratic movements around the globe.
"The American Revolution is one of the most important events in human history.” said Burns. “We went from being subjects to inventing a new concept--citizens--and set in motion democratic revolutions around the globe. As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our founding, I'm hopeful that people throughout the country will come together to discuss the importance of this history and to appreciate even more what our ancestors did to secure our liberty and freedoms.”
Information provided by WNMU-TV