History of Ken Burns in Timeline

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Ken Burns

Ken Burns is an American filmmaker renowned for his extensive documentary work focused on American history and culture. His signature style blends archival footage, still photographs, and narration to create compelling narratives. Often produced in collaboration with WETA-TV and the National Endowment for the Humanities, his documentaries are widely distributed by PBS, reaching a broad audience. Burns' films explore diverse aspects of the American experience, from the Civil War and baseball to jazz and the national parks, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in documentary filmmaking.


2009: Burns declines commercial endorsement, accepts equipment donation to nonprofits

In 2009, Ken Burns initially declined to have his name associated with Apple's software due to his stance against commercial endorsements. However, after negotiations with Apple's Steve Jobs, Burns accepted Apple equipment, which he then donated to nonprofit organizations.

2011: Burns admires Errol Morris

In a 2011 interview, Ken Burns expressed his admiration for and influence by filmmaker Errol Morris.