Netflix Documentary Examines America's Founding as an Ongoing Experiment

The Lead: America's Enduring Experiment

Netflix has released a five-part documentary series titled 'The American Experiment' that explores the United States' founding not as a completed historical event, but as an ongoing governance experiment that continues to evolve 250 years later. Director Brian Knappenberger weaves together historical re-enactments with contemporary political commentary to examine how the nation's past continues to shape its present and uncertain future.

The Historical Perspective: Revisiting America's Founding

The documentary follows a traditional historical format, using commentary from historians and academics alongside voiced-over re-enactments of events surrounding the American Revolution. Notably, Martin Sheen provides the voiceover for George Washington, lending gravitas to the portrayal of the nation's first president. However, what distinguishes this series is its deliberate connection between historical events and contemporary America, emphasizing that the American experiment remains very much in progress.

The Political Commentary: Bipartisan Reflections

A unique aspect of the documentary is its inclusion of interviews with current and former political figures from across the spectrum. The series features former Vice Presidents Al Gore and Mike Pence, sitting and former Republican Senators Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and Jeff Flake, as well as Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi. This bipartisan approach demonstrates a rare moment of unity as these figures express reverence for America's founding ideals despite their political differences. The documentary highlights how Washington himself warned against extreme factionalism, a concern that seems particularly relevant in today's polarized political climate.

The Contemporary Relevance: Addressing Today's Divides

The documentary directly confronts America's current political divisions, with Mike Pence recounting his decision to certify the 2020 election results despite pressure from then-President Trump. Pence emphasizes his commitment to his oath to 'preserve, protect and defend the constitution,' drawing a parallel to earlier moments in American history when the system was tested. The series also addresses the concentration of power in the executive branch, suggesting it would surprise the nation's founders and calling on Congress to reclaim the authority originally intended by the framers of the Constitution.

The Future Outlook: An Experiment at Risk

Despite its sobering tone, the documentary maintains an underlying optimism about America's resilience. Knappenberger points out that when John Adams became president, he wondered if the country would even last four years. Yet America has survived numerous crises, including the Civil War, the Great Depression, and world wars. The documentary suggests that the fear of losing American democracy may actually be a source of strength, as reflected in the nation's anthem which acknowledges the struggle to 'through the night' rather than proclaiming inherent greatness. As the series concludes with Laura Marling's warning that 'all of this can be broken,' it ultimately presents America's ongoing experiment as both fragile and enduring.