Lucy Worsley's PBS Documentary Examines British Perspectives on the American Revolution

A new PBS documentary series hosted by British historian Lucy Worsley, titled 'Lucy Worsley Investigates: The American Revolution,' premieres its first episode on April 7, 2024, with a second installment following on April 14. The two-part program reframes the American Revolution as a 'messy divorce,' exploring British viewpoints from King George III and elites to merchants and the working class. Worsley emphasizes the emotional fallout of the historic rupture, describing it as 'a perfect union that went wrong.' The documentary examines key events like the Stamp Act of 1765, the Townshend Acts of 1767, the Boston Massacre of March 5, 1770, and the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773. It highlights figures such as radical politician John Wilkes, merchant Peter Verstille, and founding father Benjamin Franklin, whose loyalties shifted during his time in London from 1757 to 1775. The series also covers British domestic unrest, including James Aitken's arson attacks in 1776-1777 and the Gordon Riots in June 1780, witnessed by abolitionist Ignatius Sancho. Historians Liz Covart and Olivette Otele provide commentary, noting Britain's diverse opinions on the conflict and the economic pressures that eroded public support. The documentary reveals King George III's drafted but unsent abdication letter in 1782, showing his vulnerability. The American Revolution officially ended with the Treaty of Paris in September 1783, recognizing U.S. independence. Worsley, chief curator at Historic Royal Palaces for 21 years, has hosted numerous PBS shows on historical topics.