Conversations on Franklin

Join PBS for a series of virtual, hour-long discussions with Ken Burns and special guests, featuring clips from the two-part series, REGISTER NOW.


Coming April 4 & 5, Ken Burns’s four-hour documentary, BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, explores the revolutionary life of one of the 18th Century’s most consequential figures, whose work and words unlocked the mystery of electricity and helped create the United States. In preparation for the broadcast and streaming,  these special live events will feature dynamic discussion on Benjamin Franklin’s life and impact on our history.  All events are free and open to the public. Sign up for one or all!

March 3: "Franklin and Writing" 6:00 pm CT - Register
With Ken Burns; Christopher Brown, Professor of History, Columbia University; and Jane Kamensky, Professor of History, Harvard University. Moderated by Bina Venkataraman, Editor-at-Large, The Boston Globe.
Presented by GBH, Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology, and The Boston Globe

March 8: "Franklin and Innovation" 6:00 pm CT - Register
With Ken Burns; Walter Isaacson, author of "Benjamin Franklin: An American Life;" and Stacy Schiff, author of "A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America." Moderated by Stephanie Mehta, Chief Content Officer, Mansueto.
Presented by The WNET Group, Fast Company and Inc.

March 23: "Franklin and Diplomacy" 6:00 pm CT – Register
With Ken Burns; Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice; and Nicholas Burns, Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China. Moderated by Judy Woodruff, PBS NewsHour.
Presented by WETA, Georgetown University and The Better Angels Society

March 29: "Franklin and Revolution" 6:00 pm CT - Register
With Ken Burns; Walter Isaacson, author of "Benjamin Franklin: An American Life;" and Erica Dunbar, Professor of History, Rutgers University.
Presented by WHYY

Benjamin Franklin Preview

Behind the Scenes | Exploring Benjamin Franklin

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