Few people have studied America and what it means to be an American more and at a deeper level than our guest in this one. He has dedicated his life to documenting the stories of the people, the history and the cultures that have shaped us all. And as we enter what is one of the most tumultuous years of our collective lives, it’s a good moment to take a bead, catch our breaths and get some perspective. Ken Burns (@KenBurns) returns to the show to break it all down with your host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). It’s a clarion call in our darkest night. And it must be heeded. But it’s also a dose of inspiration and perspective the entire country could use right now. A reminder of who we are and what we can be, both the good and the bad. Ken Burns is a truly important, inspiring and iconic American who is shaping what America has been, what it is, and what it will be. He is an exceptionally wise, insightful and trusted leader that we all need to hear from right now. A man who understands history--and the historic nature of these times. The perfect guest to take us into the most important election in our lifetime.  He’s the visionary mastermind behind the greatest stories of our country—of our people–of our history—and of our future. The Civil War (1990), Baseball (1994), Jazz (2001), The War (2007), The National Parks: America's Best Idea (2009), Prohibition (2011), The Roosevelts (2014), The Vietnam War (2017), Country Music, The US and the Holocaust (2022), The American Buffalo (2023), and a forthcoming and long-awaited series on the American Revolution. He’s also the author of, Our America: A Photographic History.  He’s a historian. He’s a documentarian. He’s a master storyteller. He’s a patriot. He’s our mirror. And he’s a conscience for us all. And he’s back for an extremely candid, wise and passionate conversation. You’ve seen Ken’s work. But you’ve never heard him as unfiltered as this.  Ken Burns previously joined us on Independent Americans for Episode 195 in November of 2022 Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Ken’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices