Waging the War of Independence

From early setbacks to hard-won victories, this conversation—paired with a special clip screening—explores how the American Revolution was fought on the ground, led from the top, and sustained through extraordinary sacrifice. Ranging from battlefield tactics to command decisions and the lived realities of revolutionary warfare, the discussion examines how a fragile, makeshift Continental Army managed to defeat the most powerful empire on earth.

Ken Burns is joined by four-star General (Ret.) Stanley McChrystal and bestselling author Rick Atkinson for a wide-ranging look at strategy, leadership, and the improbable path to American independence, moderated by Garry Adelman.

This event is part of the 2026 Gettysburg Film Festival: American Revolution.

Purchase your tickets below.
$35/General Admission, click here.
$15/Virtual Viewing, click here.*
Priority seating is sold out for this event.

*Please note: In-person tickets cannot be refunded or converted to virtual tickets. Virtual access allows you to watch the event online from a location of your choice—not at the festival venue. Virtual access does NOT include any clip reels or live musical performances due to copyright restrictions.