Watch Ken Burns: The Address

Ken Burns: The Address is a documentary film directed and produced by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns. The film is centered on the topic of the Gettysburg Address, a speech given by former President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, during the American Civil War.

Through interviews with prominent figures such as political personalities and historians, the film explores the significance of the speech in the broader context of American history. The film also delves into the social, political, and cultural aspects of the time period in which the speech occurred, giving viewers a comprehensive understanding of its relevance.

The film's unique aspect is its focus on the Greenwood School, an institution in Putney, Vermont, that uses the memorization and recitation of the Gettysburg Address as a means of educating its students, who have learning differences. The documentary captures the students' journey in understanding the speech's meaning and historical significance, as well as their personal growth and development through their efforts to memorize and recite the speech.

The Address was first aired on PBS in 2014 and has since received numerous accolades, including the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special in 2015.

The film is engaging and educational, and aptly explores the complexities of Lincoln's speech while placing it in the context of broader social and political issues of the time. The film's ability to blend interviews and historical footage with the personal journey of the students at Greenwood school makes it an emotional and compelling viewing experience.

Ken Burns' expertise with historical documentaries is evident in the production quality and content of The Address. The interviews with scholars and other experts are insightful, and the commentary from the students is heartwarming. The documentary manages to appeal to both history buffs and those with an interest in education and personal development.

In conclusion, Ken Burns: The Address is a moving and informative documentary that explores the historical significance of the Gettysburg Address and its continued relevance in American history. The film's unique approach of using a school curriculum to provide the backdrop for the interviews and historical footage is innovative and effective in showcasing the relevance of the speech for future generations. The Address is a must-watch for history enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in learning more about the power of words to inspire and educate.

Ken Burns: The Address is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on April 15, 2014.