C-SPAN, PBS offering programming, archives through July and beyond.
Two longstanding cable TV brands have launched multimedia efforts to showcase American history, and interpretation of it, through the nation’s 250th birthday and beyond.
C-SPAN, alongside the national America250 Commission, has stood up a special section of its website called Exploring the American Story. According to the site, “C-SPAN’s America 250 coverage will run through the semiquincentennial year, delivering the most comprehensive and wide-ranging programming of any television network in marking this historic milestone. Through in-depth historical context, expert commentary and immersive storytelling, C-SPAN will bring viewers closer to the American story – past and present. Coverage will spotlight foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris and the Constitution; travel to key Revolutionary War-era sites; and feature vivid reenactments, panel discussions and educational segments.
“C-SPAN will provide unparalleled live coverage of national commemorations, local celebrations, academic symposia and public ceremonies across all 50 states, five territories and the District of Columbia. We'll also delve into the C-SPAN Video Library to showcase our extensive collection of programs that illuminate key moments and figures in American history. This initiative is designed to foster thoughtful reflection on the principles and struggles that have defined the nation over the past 250 years – and continue to shape its future.
“Audiences are invited to participate through call-in programs and social media, sharing their reflections on what America means to them and how they see its story continuing. As always, C-SPAN’s coverage will be commercial-free and accessible across its full suite of platforms, including:
· C-SPAN, C-SPAN2 and C-SPAN3 including Book TV, American History TV and Washington Journal
· C-SPAN.org
· C-SPAN Radio and Podcasts
· C-SPAN Classroom and StudentCam
· C-SPAN Now and C-SPAN Select apps
· C-SPAN’s social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok, offering highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and opportunities for public engagement.”
PBS has stood up a website section of its own, America @ 250. The site invites users to “join … in commemorating the country’s 250th anniversary with content exploring how the United States came together, showcasing its rich history, treasured artifacts, and performances and art that define America.”
Coverage includes histories and biographies, artifacts and objects, PBS LearningMedia Classroom Resources and more, as well as filmmaker/Tango Alpha Lima guest Ken Burns’ new film on the American Revolution.
By National Executive Committee resolution, American Legion departments and posts are encouraged to connect with their state and local America250 commissions. An online directory is available to contact these commissions at america250.org/our-partners/state-and-territory-commissions. Share your stories of involvement on Legiontown (https://www.legiontown.org/america-250).
- USA250