*PBS is preparing to debut a new documentary that explores the lives of Black Americans who pursued freedom during the nation’s fight for independence.
“DECLARATIONS: BLACK AMERICANS AND THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR” premieres June 29 at 10 p.m. ET on PBS, PBS.org and the PBS app. Produced by VPM and directed by Stacey L. Holman, the one-hour film arrives as part of PBS America @ 250, a multiyear initiative marking the country’s 250th anniversary.
Rather than focusing on familiar Revolutionary War figures, the documentary centers on four Black Americans whose stories unfolded alongside the nation’s founding, per the news release. Through their experiences, the film examines how enslaved and free Black people sought liberty for themselves, their families and their communities while democratic ideals spread across the colonies.
Among those featured is James Lafayette, who worked as a double agent for the Patriots and played a role in the British defeat at Yorktown. The film also follows Harry Washington, who escaped enslavement at Mount Vernon and joined British forces during the conflict.
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Viewers will also learn about Elizabeth Freeman, known earlier in life as Mum Bet, who challenged her enslavement through the courts. Another subject, Abraham Peyton Skipwith, used his literacy and access to influential circles to petition for freedom before becoming one of the first free Black landowners in Richmond, Virginia.
The production includes commentary from historians and scholars including Leslie Alexander, Danielle Allen, Edward Ayers, Christopher L. Brown and Woody Holton.
“This film is an opportunity to bring to light more hidden figures in history — stories that are important to the building of this nation,” Holman said.
The documentary also uses a distinctive visual approach. Artist and archival producer Hudson Campbell created hand-painted oil portraits of the featured historical figures. Working with historic advisors, the production then animated those portraits using artificial intelligence tools.
“My work examines how the past informs the future, exploring the evolution of both the stories being told and the mediums used to tell them,” Campbell said.
The film will stream simultaneously with its broadcast premiere and remain available across PBS digital platforms.
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