What would surprise America's founders
Filmmaker Ken Burns, who's helped viewers understand American history, shared what he thinks would surprise the nation's founders 250 years after the Declaration of Independence.
Ken Burns
Ken Burns on America's origin story: "The most important event since the birth of Christ"
The documentary filmmaker, long a chronicler of the American experience, talks about his latest film for PBS, "The American Revolution," and why the end of the Revolutionary War did not mean the end of our nation's revolution.
Ken Burns on America's continuing revolution
Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns has long been a chronicler of the American experience. He talks with John Dickerson about his latest film for PBS, "The American Revolution"; the importance of studying history; and why the end of the Revolutionary War did not mean the end of our nation's revolution.
Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein on new docuseries
A 12-hour documentary series centered on the United States' war for independence is premiering on PBS in November. Co-directors Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein join "The Takeout" to discuss what went into making "The American Revolution" and what they discovered in the process.
Ken Burns: Attacks on PBS seem "foolhardy" and "misguided"
Filmmaker Ken Burns said it's "shortsighted" to eliminate funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, as public media has become a target of the White House.
Transcript: Ken Burns on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," July 6, 2025
The following is the transcript of an interview with documentary filmmaker Ken Burns and "CBS Evening News" co-anchor John Dickerson that will air on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on July 6, 2025.
Ken Burns on "Face the Nation"
As the U.S. celebrates 249 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, "CBS Evening News" co-anchor John Dickerson spoke with documentarian Ken Burns about his new film on the American Revolution and the importance of telling the story of American history.
Filmmaker Ken Burns on the American Revolution
The American Revolution was one of the most significant events in world history because it created a "new thing called a citizen," iconic filmmaker Ken Burns told CBS News, as the nation celebrates the Fourth of July exactly one year before its 250th birthday. "CBS Evening News" co-anchor John Dickerson spoke with Burns, whose upcoming film, "The American Revolution," is expected to air on PBS on Nov. 16.
Ken Burns on how the American Revolution "turned the world upside down"
Filmmaker Ken Burns says the American Revolution created a "new thing called a citizen."
Ken Burns on American Revolution's importance
Filmmaker Ken Burns explains the importance of the American Revolution, telling "CBS Evening News" co-anchor and CBS News chief political analyst John Dickerson that he thinks it's "the most important event since the birth of Christ in all of world history." Watch more of his interview Sunday on "Face the Nation."
Preview "The Vietnam War"
The documentary filmmakers' latest project, a 10-part series on the U.S. war in Vietnam, premieres Sunday on PBS.
Face the Nation, Sept. 17
This week on "Face the Nation," host John Dickerson interviews Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Senator John McCain to discuss the priorities at the United Nations General Assembly this week, and Ken Burns and Lynn Novick preview their ten-part documentary, "The Vietnam War."
Here Comes the Sun: Ken Burns and more
Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns sits down with Susan Spencer to discuss his new PBS documentary series "The U.S. and the Holocaust." Then, Mo Rocca travels to Crested Butte, Colorado, to learn about wildflowers. "Here Comes the Sun" is a closer look at some of the people, places and things we bring you every week on "CBS Sunday Morning."
Ken Burns on "The Takeout"
Documentarian Ken Burns discussed his new PBS docuseries "Muhammad Ali," which chronicles the life of the iconic boxer and his legacy on sports, politics and much more, on this week's episode of "The Takeout with Major Garrett."
Portrait of a genius: Ken Burns on Leonardo da Vinci
The acclaimed filmmaker behind the PBS documentary on the 15th century Italian artist and intellectual calls Leonardo da Vinci "one of the most incredibly interesting human beings who has ever walked the Earth."
America's failures in response to the Holocaust
A new PBS documentary series by Ken Burns, Lynn Novick and Sarah Botstein, "The U.S. and the Holocaust," examines how United States policy was not always an open door for Jews in Europe who sought to flee Nazi persecution before and during World War II.
Ken Burns discusses his Muhammad Ali documentary
Burns says that he wanted to cover Ali's life from his boyhood in segregated Louisville until his death five years ago of Parkinson's Disease.
Ken Burns on America, selling his first film and more
The filmmaker known for his exhaustive documentaries on American subjects gives Scott Pelley a glimpse into how his films are made, the message he wants to convey with them and how he became the person he is today.
Ken Burns and Lynn Novick on filmmaking in a pandemic
On "Facing Forward," Margaret Brennan talks with documentary filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick about filmmaking during a pandemic and their new documentary Hemingway
Live
Iran's relentless strikes send oil prices back up, stock markets down
Iran's relentless attacks on Gulf states and infrastructure appear to be overshadowing interventions by the U.S. and its allies aimed at easing energy prices.
Trump releasing 172 million barrels of oil from reserve as prices soar amid Iran war
President Trump ordered the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the U.S.'s Strategic Petroleum Reserve on Wednesday, after oil prices rocketed to their highest levels in years amid the U.S.'s war with Iran.
Senate to vote again on funding DHS as tempers flare over impasse
The Senate will vote again on a measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security as an impasse over how to reform immigration enforcement agencies has grown ugly, nearly a month into a partial shutdown.
Trump administration takes steps to impose new tariffs
The Supreme Court ruled in February that the president lacks the authority to impose unilateral tariffs using an emergency powers law.
NYPD cop who chased down bomb suspect had just one thought: "Catch the bad guy"
NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards hopped a metal barrier to chase down a suspect accused of throwing IEDs during clashing protests outside Gracie Mansion.
Iran won't surrender "in a million years," analyst says
The U.S. and Israel had a "flawed assumption" that the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would lead to the collapse of the regime, said an expert on the region.
Officer took ambulance sent for man dying from police shooting, report says
The report raised questions about what took place after the shooting, which left Dyshan Best bleeding with fatal injuries.
Democratic Sen. John Fetterman says war with Iran has been "effective"
"I think, overall, what's accomplished is remarkable," Sen. John Fetterman told CBS News chief White House correspondent Major Garrett in an interview Wednesday.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
U.S.
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As pennies begin to disappear, states grappling with "rounding" problem
As pennies begin to disappear, states are grappling with a "rounding" problem for cash purchases that would have included them in the past.
Senate to vote again on funding DHS as tempers flare over impasse
The Senate will vote again on a measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security as an impasse over how to reform immigration enforcement agencies has grown ugly, nearly a month into a partial shutdown.
Officer took ambulance sent for man dying from police shooting, report says
The report raised questions about what took place after the shooting, which left Dyshan Best bleeding with fatal injuries.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
NYPD cop who chased down bomb suspect had just one thought: "Catch the bad guy"
NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards hopped a metal barrier to chase down a suspect accused of throwing IEDs during clashing protests outside Gracie Mansion.
MoneyWatch
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As pennies begin to disappear, states grappling with "rounding" problem
As pennies begin to disappear, states are grappling with a "rounding" problem for cash purchases that would have included them in the past.
Will Iran war-linked leap in gas prices boost EV sales?
Whether the Iran war-linked leap in the price of gas will give a shot in the arm to EV sales will depend on a variety of factors, experts say, so the answer isn't clear-cut.
Trump releasing 172 million barrels of oil from reserve as prices soar amid Iran war
President Trump ordered the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the U.S.'s Strategic Petroleum Reserve on Wednesday, after oil prices rocketed to their highest levels in years amid the U.S.'s war with Iran.
FTC to refund more than $47 million to consumers allegedly deceived by Invitation Homes
A 2024 government lawsuit accused Invitation Homes of deceiving renters about lease costs, charging undisclosed junk fees and other unlawful practices.
What is XMoney, Elon Musk's new digital payments platform?
Elon Musk said his long-planned payments platform, dubbed XMoney, is set to launch for select users. Here's what to know.
Politics
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Senate to vote again on funding DHS as tempers flare over impasse
The Senate will vote again on a measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security as an impasse over how to reform immigration enforcement agencies has grown ugly, nearly a month into a partial shutdown.
Iran won't surrender "in a million years," analyst says
The U.S. and Israel had a "flawed assumption" that the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would lead to the collapse of the regime, said an expert on the region.
Fetterman calls Trump's criticism of mail-in voting "ridiculous"
"The president is constantly critical on mail-in voting, and that's ridiculous," Democratic Sen. John Fetterman said Wednesday.
Trump releasing 172 million barrels of oil from reserve as prices soar amid Iran war
President Trump ordered the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the U.S.'s Strategic Petroleum Reserve on Wednesday, after oil prices rocketed to their highest levels in years amid the U.S.'s war with Iran.
Officials downplay risk of Iranian drone attacks off California after FBI memo
FBI memo warning that Iran may try to launch drones at California in a seaborne "surprise attack" raised concern Wednesday — but officials tell CBS News there is no known, specific threat underpinning it.
HealthWatch
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Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
Investigation
There's one building in LA with 89 registered hospices: "Ground zero" for fraud?
A CBS News analysis of records for every hospice operating in Los Angeles County finds indications of fraud are growing.
Raw oysters and clams recalled in 9 states over norovirus risks
Food containing norovirus may smell and taste normal but still cause serious illness if consumed, FDA warns.
More kids are in ERs for tooth pain. Budget cuts and fluoride fights aren't helping.
Dentists, hygienists, and researchers say a shortage of rural dental care professionals and worsening oral hygiene since the COVID-19 pandemic mean more kids are ending up in the emergency room for tooth decay.
World
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Images show Kim Jong Un and daughter firing guns at shooting range
North Korea has shown leader Kim Jong Un and his teen daughter firing pistols at a munitions factory as he pushes to modernize the country's conventional forces.
Will Iran war-linked leap in gas prices boost EV sales?
Whether the Iran war-linked leap in the price of gas will give a shot in the arm to EV sales will depend on a variety of factors, experts say, so the answer isn't clear-cut.
Live
Iran's relentless strikes send oil prices back up, stock markets down
Iran's relentless attacks on Gulf states and infrastructure appear to be overshadowing interventions by the U.S. and its allies aimed at easing energy prices.
Iran won't surrender "in a million years," analyst says
The U.S. and Israel had a "flawed assumption" that the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would lead to the collapse of the regime, said an expert on the region.
3 brothers arrested in connection with U.S. embassy explosion in Norway
The men were Norwegian citizens of Iraqi origin who were not previously known to police, police prosecutor Christian Hatlo said.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
"Sinners" cinematographer on crafting scenes
Oscar-nominated "Sinners" cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw watches scenes from the film with Anthony Mason and breaks down how some of its most memorable moments were created. She also shares how her collaboration with director Ryan Coogler helped define the film's look.
Flavor Flav celebrates women athletes
Pop culture icon Flava Flav stopped by "CBS Mornings" to discuss his plans to celebrate women Olympic and Paralympic medalists from the 2026 Winter Games.
Kurt Russell talks drama series "The Madison"
Kurt Russell, who stars in "The Madison," spoke to "CBS Mornings" about the series, explaining the script "was so familiar" and that he related to it. Russell praised creator Taylor Sheridan, who was also behind the popular series "Yellowstone," and discussed what it was like to work with Michelle Pfeiffer again decades later.
Oscars 2026: Behind the scenes with the best actor nominees
Watch scenes from the performances nominated for best actor at the 98th annual Academy Awards, as well as interviews with the nominees.
Dorrance on preserving tap dancing history
American tap dancer Michelle Dorrance talks to CBS News chief medical correspondent Jon LaPook about Brenda Bufalino's impact and preserving the 88-year-old's artistry for future generations in a project at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.
Technology
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Technology
Memory chip shortage could raise tech prices
An explosion in artificial intelligence data centers and cloud computing is shrinking the supply of memory chips, which is having a major impact on the price consumers pay for everyday tech. CNET editor-in-chief David Katzmaier joins CBS News to discuss.
What is XMoney, Elon Musk's new digital payments platform?
Elon Musk said his long-planned payments platform, dubbed XMoney, is set to launch for select users. Here's what to know.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
How Hollywood is grappling with AI
AI-generated artist Tilly Norwood and the company behind her released a new music video speaking directly to her critics. As AI evolves, Hollywood faces questions over legal protections, copyright infringement and human labor. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Details on Pentagon removal of Claude
CBS News exclusively obtained a Pentagon memo from earlier this month that went out to several senior defense leaders and commanders. It ordered the removal of Anthropic's AI technology from key national systems. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Science
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Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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NYPD cop who chased down bomb suspect had just one thought: "Catch the bad guy"
NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards hopped a metal barrier to chase down a suspect accused of throwing IEDs during clashing protests outside Gracie Mansion.
Officials downplay risk of attacks off West Coast
Officials are downplaying the risk of Iranian drone attacks against California after an FBI memo said the regime "allegedly aspired" to target the Golden State. CBS News homeland security correspondent Nicole Sganga reports. Then, former FBI Special Agent Jeff Harp joins with analysis.
NYPD officers on response to terror incident
A picture of an NYPD chief responding to the terror incident outside Mayor Zohran Mamdani's residence last week has gone viral. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more about what happened that day.
New details in Georgia teacher's death
The family of a Georgia student charged in what investigators describe as a prank gone horribly wrong says they are grieving the tremendous loss to the community. CBS News correspondent Elaine Quijano has the latest.
Man crashes car into barrier near White House
Police in Washington, D.C., arrested a man after he crashed a car into a barricade near the White House on Wednesday morning. CBS News homeland security correspondent Nicole Sganga reports.
Space
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Space
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
How NASA plans to get astronauts on the moon
NASA announced an overhaul to its Artemis moon program as safety concerns persist. CBS News space contributor Christian Davenport breaks down the key takeaways.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Sneak peek: Jocelyn Green and the Notebook
ALL NEW: Why did a man eat pages from a notebook when facing questions about the murder of a third grade teacher? "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green reports Saturday, March 14 at 10/9c on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.
Fetterman opens up about depression battle
Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania opened up about his battle with depression and credited his three children for saving him from his suicidal thoughts. "What broke me out of it was my own kids, and everyone needs that kind of an emergency brake," Fetterman told Major Garrett on "The Takeout."
What we know about FBI memo on drone risk
An FBI memo warning that Iran may try to launch drones at California in a seaborne "surprise attack" is raising concerns, but how serious is the threat? Nicole Sganga explains.
3/11: The Takeout with Major Garrett
Trump says there's "practically nothing left" to target on Day 12 of war in Iran; legislative blockade threatened over SAVE Act.
Lost dog returned to family two years later
Two years after a Dallas family's dog disappeared, she was found 1,300 miles away in New Jersey. Tony Dokoupil has the story of how made her way back home.