Main Library to offer ‘The American Revolution’ | The free event features an abbreviated screening of the documentary by filmmakers Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt.

The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, in partnership with PBS Western Reserve, will host “The American Revolution: Screening, Panel, and Digital Exhibition” from 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday at Main Library in downtown Youngstown.

The free event will feature an abbreviated screening of “The American Revolution,” the latest documentary by filmmakers Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt. The film explores how 13 colonies along the Atlantic rose in rebellion, won independence from Great Britain and created a new form of government that reshaped the continent and inspired democratic movements around the world.

Digital exhibition, panel

The evening also includes a digital exhibition featuring materials from the American Revolution era and a panel discussion led by experts examining the roles of women and literature during the revolution. The Public Library will provide light refreshments.

“The American Revolution was a transformational time in history with images that linger in our minds, like George Washington crossing the Delaware River,” said panelist Traci Manning from the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. “The Ken Burns’ documentary opens up a much larger picture of that era with stories that most people have never heard of,” “We’re going to highlight some of those stories with a focus on women’s history at the time – a topic that is often very overlooked in early American history.”

PLYMC Chief Experience Officer Erin Phemester said the event reflects the Public Library’s commitment to connecting the community with history through engaging programming. “Programs like this bring history to life and help people see how the stories of the past continue to shape the world around us today,” said Phemester.

“We’re especially excited to highlight perspectives that are often overlooked, including the important roles women played during the American Revolution. Partnering with PBS Western Reserve allows us to combine film, historical materials and expert discussion to give our community a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history.”

Community members are encouraged to register for the event through the PBS Western Reserve ticket link.

The event is supported by donors to The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. To make a donation, visit www.libraryvisit.org.

Main Library

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