*Ken Burns Explores the Revolutionary Life of Benjamin Franklin [View all]

A portrait of Benjamin Franklin.

A new, two-part documentary film from Ken Burns and WETA explores the life and work of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most consequential and compelling figures in United States history. The story of this fascinating, iconic American — a prolific writer and publisher, groundbreaking scientist and inventor, a revolutionary and world-renowned diplomat, and signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution — reveals his remarkable life and contributions while scrutinizing his contradictions.

Benjamin Franklin airs Monday and Tuesday, April 4-5 at 8pm on WETA PBS or stream with the free PBS video app.