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A More Perfect Union

The First Branch

Season 2025 Episode 1 | 50s

Yuval Levin examines the foundational role of the legislative branch in American democracy, highlighting its design as a forum for discussion, persuasion, and negotiation. Referencing Madison and the Declaration of Independence, Levin explains why the “first branch” was intentionally placed at the heart of the democratic process—as a reflection of a society of equals.

Major funding is provided by The Pew Charitable Trusts. Funding is also provided by The Travelers Companies, Inc. , the Charles F. Kettering Foundation, and viewers like you.
Extras
Watch • 0:30
A More Perfect Union
Trailer
Explore America’s founding ideals in A More Perfect Union, premiering Nov 24 at 9p ET on PBS.
Preview: S2025 E1 | 0:30
Watch • 0:53
A More Perfect Union
President as a Populist Office
Jeffrey Rosen explains how presidential power has expanded far beyond the Founders' vision.
Clip: S2025 E1 | 0:53
Watch • 0:10
A More Perfect Union
Screensaver
A conversation about how America's founding principles remain relevant to governance today.
Clip: 0:10
Watch • 0:49
A More Perfect Union
Ken Burns: Why the American Revolution Still Matters
Ken Burns reflects on reconnecting with America’s founding to rediscover our shared purpose.
Clip: S2025 E1 | 0:49
Watch • 55:05
A More Perfect Union
A More Perfect Union
A conversation about how America's founding principles remain relevant to governance today.
Episode: S2025 E1 | 55:05
Watch • 1:45
A More Perfect Union
Democracy as a Consequence
Ken Burns explains how the American Revolution unintentionally gave birth to democracy.
Clip: S2025 E1 | 1:45
Watch • 0:44
A More Perfect Union
Evolving Citizenship
Yuval Levin reflects on how American citizenship has evolved to embrace both diversity and unity.
Clip: S2025 E1 | 0:44
Watch • 1:22
A More Perfect Union
Sarah Botstein: Why the American Revolution Still Matters
Sarah Botstein shares why the American Revolution still matters in today’s civic and political life.
Clip: S2025 E1 | 1:22
Latest Episodes
Watch • 55:05
A More Perfect Union
A More Perfect Union
A conversation about how America's founding principles remain relevant to governance today.
Episode: S2025 E1 | 55:05