With an exciting array of programs coming to KAMU this October, a standout is a new documentary special from Ken Burns. For decades, this award-winning filmmaker has explored a variety of important stories throughout history. Whether it’s sports, history or nature, Burns has covered topics and issues that appeal to a wide audience. Below we showcase a few of his most popular programs, including a closer look at his newest series, “The American Buffalo.”
“The American Buffalo” on KAMU
The newest installment from Ken Burns tells the tragic story of the buffalo and how a certain group of people came together to fight back against the species’ extinction.
In this two part docu-series, “The American Buffalo” begins with a focused history on the connection of the buffalo with the Indigenous people of North America. Bonded in spirit and kinship, Native Americans across the North and South Plains considered this animal to be sacred. Yet, with the progression of westward expansion in the mid-1800s, hide hunters started to take over the Great Plains. This led to a species that once had a population of 12-15 million falling to less than a thousand buffalo in just a few years.
With the near extinction of their most cherished animal, the Native American tribes of the Great Plains fell into a state of despair. However, the series’ second episode focuses on a group of individuals who unified against the buffalo’s eradication. This had a ripple effect across the U.S., encouraging a nation-wide effort aimed towards saving the buffalo.
See all of this and more when part one of “The American Buffalo” premieres on KAMU Monday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. with part two following on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at the same time.
Miss the first showing? Watch a double feature of “The American Buffalo” when it re-airs on Sunday, Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m.
Other Ken Burns films on KAMU Passport
With dozens of programs to choose from, KAMU Passport also features some of Ken Burns’ most popular documentaries. Here are just a few that you can watch on Passport:
Country Music
One of Burns’ newest installments, “Country Music” reveals never-before-told stories from the genre’s most familiar voices. Featuring interviews with Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks and more, hear first-hand accounts on the history and rise of American country music. From the evolution of the early genre, to the growth of “Music City” and the smashing success of “Hee Haw,” you can jam out with this eight-part series anytime on KAMU Passport.
The Roosevelts: An Intimate History
Known for their considerable impact on American politics, Burns highlights the intricate details of the lives of Franklin, Theodore and Eleanor Roosevelt. Starting from their childhood, this seven-part series portrays the relationships formed between the three individuals as well as their respective missions towards American prosperity. Learn more about their early life, their impacts on the policies of the era and how Eleanor sought to create a lasting family legacy long after their time in politics.
Stream The Roosevelts: An Intimate History
Jackie Robinson
As the man who revolutionized baseball, Jackie Robinson is considered one of the most influential athletes in American history. You’ve heard his story, but never in the way this filmmaker intended it to be told. In this two-part series, Burns seeks to dive deeper, focusing on Robinson’s impacts even after his time on the baseball field. Learn how he not only fought to break the color barrier in professional sports but also cultivated a life long legacy of activism.
The U.S. and the Holocaust
Inspired by exhibits in the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C., this series explores how the U.S. responded to one of the worst humanitarian crises in history. Examine the rise of Nazism on a global scale and what role the U.S. played throughout this era. Nominated for Emmy Awards in three separate categories (Outstanding Documentary Series, Outstanding Writing for Nonfiction Program, Outstanding Directing for Documentary Series), this is a can’t miss program featured on KAMU Passport.
Stream The US and the Holocaust
Interested in streaming one of these films or other Ken Burns documentaries? Learn more about joining KAMU Passport today.
