It’s finally here. This month, our country officially turns 250 years old. Milestones always make me reflective, and this is a big one. I’ve been thinking a lot about the idea of America – what it means to me, what it means in our shared imagination, and what it will mean in the future. I hope and believe Americans across the country are engaging in similar contemplation. We share this place at a consequential time in history, and it’s an important moment to look both backward and forward with clear eyes and curiosity.

Like so many folks across the country, I started my commemoration of this milestone in the fall with The American Revolution. If you missed it – or parts of it – it’s worth revisiting. As always, Ken Burns and team bring the story to life with the perspectives and experiences of so many individuals who lived through the war that led to America. The series has been a meaningful point of connection and conversation for families and communities across the country. You can stream the entire series online now. 

Throughout this year and continuing into this month, PBS has delivered a slate of programs that explore and examine the country’s first 250 years, culminating in a holiday weekend of programming that celebrates this milestone, including A Capitol Fourth and America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together. 

Thank you for supporting public television and helping make possible programs that bring our communities and country together to reflect on our shared and ongoing commitment to form a more perfect union.

Rachel Knight
General Manager