Up Next
Back to Show
The American Revolution
The Constitution & The Formation of A More Perfect Union
The American Revolution has ended, but the newly United States teeters on the brink of fracturing. Delegates, nearly half of whom own slaves, meet in Philadelphia to draft a new constitution. They create a system of government intended to preserve freedom and liberty, and prevent demagogues from plunging the nation into tyranny. The document is sent to the states to ratify.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:10:41
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:53:53
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:55:38
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:54:35
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:04:18
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:56:09
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.