50 Facts About Ken Burns

Early Life and Education

Ken Burns is a renowned documentary filmmaker known for his distinctive style and deep dives into American history. Let's explore some fascinating facts about his early life and education.

1. Ken Burns was born on July 29, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York.
2. His full name is Kenneth Lauren Burns.
3. Burns' mother, Lyla Smith Burns, was a biotechnician, and his father, Robert Kyle Burns, was an anthropology professor.
4. He moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the age of 10.
5. Burns graduated from Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor.
6. He attended Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts.
7. At Hampshire College, Burns studied under documentary filmmaker Jerome Liebling.
8. He graduated from Hampshire College in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Career Beginnings

Ken Burns' career took off with his unique approach to documentary filmmaking. Here are some key facts about his early career.

9. Burns founded Florentine Films in 1976 with two college friends.
10. His first major film was "Brooklyn Bridge," released in 1981.
11. "Brooklyn Bridge" was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary.
12. Burns' early work focused on American history and culture.
13. He often used archival footage and photographs in his documentaries.
14. His distinctive style includes the use of slow zooms and pans over still images, known as the "Ken Burns effect."
15. Burns' films often feature narration by well-known actors.
16. He has collaborated with historian Geoffrey C. Ward on many projects.

Major Works

Ken Burns is best known for his extensive documentary series on various aspects of American history. Here are some highlights of his major works.

17. "The Civil War" (1990) is one of Burns' most acclaimed documentaries.
18. "The Civil War" won more than 40 major film and television awards.
19. "Baseball" (1994) is another significant work, exploring the history of the sport.
20. "Jazz" (2001) delves into the history of jazz music in America.
21. "The War" (2007) focuses on World War II from the perspective of American soldiers.
22. "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" (2009) celebrates the history of the national parks system.
23. "Prohibition" (2011) examines the era of alcohol prohibition in the United States.
24. "The Roosevelts: An Intimate History" (2014) profiles Theodore, Franklin, and Eleanor Roosevelt.
25. "Vietnam War" (2017) provides an in-depth look at the Vietnam conflict.
26. "Country Music" (2019) explores the history and impact of country music in America.

Awards and Recognition

Ken Burns' contributions to documentary filmmaking have earned him numerous awards and accolades. Here are some notable recognitions.

27. Burns has won 15 Emmy Awards.
28. He received the National Humanities Medal in 1996.
29. In 2008, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
30. Burns was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2011.
31. He received the John Steinbeck Award in 2013.
32. Burns was awarded the Jefferson Lecture in the Humanities in 2016.
33. He has been nominated for two Academy Awards.
34. Burns received the Ken Burns American Heritage Prize in 2016.
35. He was awarded the Lincoln Prize for his work on "The Civil War."

Personal Life

Ken Burns' personal life is as interesting as his professional achievements. Here are some facts about his personal life.

36. Burns has been married twice.
37. His first wife was Amy Stechler, a fellow filmmaker.
38. Burns and Stechler had two daughters, Sarah and Lily.
39. He married Julie Deborah Brown in 2003.
40. Burns and Brown have two daughters, Olivia and Willa.
41. He resides in Walpole, New Hampshire.
42. Burns is an avid supporter of the Democratic Party.
43. He has been involved in various charitable activities and organizations.
44. Burns is a passionate advocate for public broadcasting.

Influence and Legacy

Ken Burns' work has had a profound impact on documentary filmmaking and American culture. Here are some facts about his influence and legacy.

45. The "Ken Burns effect" is widely used in documentary filmmaking and video editing software.
46. Burns' documentaries have been praised for their historical accuracy and storytelling.
47. He has inspired a new generation of documentary filmmakers.
48. Burns' work has been used as educational material in schools and universities.
49. He has been a vocal advocate for the preservation of historical sites and artifacts.
50. Burns' documentaries have reached millions of viewers worldwide, making history accessible and engaging for all.

The Legacy of Ken Burns

Ken Burns has left an indelible mark on documentary filmmaking. His unique style, often called the "Ken Burns Effect," brings history to life through still photographs, narration, and music. From "The Civil War" to "Country Music," his films have educated and inspired millions. Burns' dedication to storytelling and historical accuracy sets him apart. His work not only entertains but also educates, making complex historical events accessible to everyone. As we reflect on his contributions, it's clear that Burns has changed how we view history. His documentaries serve as a bridge between the past and present, reminding us of the lessons learned and the stories worth telling. Whether you're a history buff or a casual viewer, Ken Burns' films offer something valuable. His legacy will continue to influence future generations of filmmakers and historians.