America’s Founding Promise: From Jefferson to Lincoln

The words “all men are created equal” were penned by Thomas Jefferson, a man who enslaved hundreds of fellow human beings, including some of his own biological children. This conversation and film clip screening examines Jefferson’s promise to America—and the profound contradictions at its core—tracing the long and unfinished journey from 1776 to 1863, when Abraham Lincoln repeated those words at Gettysburg and challenged the nation to live up to them.

Ken Burns will be joined on stage by actor Sam Waterston, who voiced both Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln in his films, and by acclaimed author, historian, and professor Annette Gordon-Reed. The conversation will be moderated by author and Lincoln historian Harold Holzer.

This event is part of the 2026 Gettysburg Film Festival: American Revolution.

Purchase your tickets below.
FREE/ VIP & Festival Pass Holders
$60/Priority Seating, click here.
$35/General Admission, click here.