Benjamin Franklin leaves Boston and reinvents himself in Philadelphia where he builds a printing empire. Turning to science, his experiments in electricity earn him worldwide fame. In London, he tries to build relationships.

Franklin returns to wartime Philadelphia and joins Congress. He helps Thomas Jefferson craft the Declaration of Independence. In Paris, he wins French support for the American Revolution then negotiates a peace treaty with Britain.

Filmmakers and special guests explore Franklin's writing in this virtual event series.

Filmmakers and special guests explore Franklin's writing in this virtual event series.

Filmmakers and special guests explore Franklin's writing in this virtual event series.

Ken Burns speaks with Mandy Patinkin and Michael Douglas.