Ronny Sianturi
The Smithsonian Institution, a beacon of national heritage and historical inquiry, often finds itself at the nexus of public discourse regarding the portrayal of American history. Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, a respected historian and museum leader, navigates these conversations with a nuanced perspective. He acknowledges the recurring criticism, voiced by some, including elements within the current presidential administration, that the Smithsonian’s exhibits lean too heavily on the nation’s painful or challenging past, potentially overshadowing narratives of hope and progress. However, Secretary Bunch firmly asserts that these perspectives are not mutually exclusive. His philosophy, articulated in the context of the documentary series "The American Experiment," posits that a comprehensive understanding of a nation necessitates confronting its entire historical arc, including its adversities. "How do you understand a nation if you don’t look at all the challenges a nation has faced?" he asks. "A great nation doesn’t run from its past, doesn’t hide from its past, but looks at it, learns from it and has been made better by that past.”
This philosophy underpins "The American Experiment," a six-hour docuseries presented on Netflix and directed by Brian Knappenberger, known for his work on "The Internet’s Own Boy: The Story of Aaron Swartz." The series endeavors to provide a panoramic view of the nation’s founding, a period fraught with both lofty ideals and profound contradictions. While its success in envisioning a clear future may be debated, its efficacy in illuminating the past is compelling, offering an impressively thorough examination of the nation’s genesis and the pivotal figures who shaped it.
A Deliberate Pace for a Deep Dive
The docuseries, spanning five parts and covering the era from the years preceding the Declaration of Independence in 1776 through the conclusion of George Washington’s presidency in 1797, adopts a tone of insistent dignity. This deliberate approach is designed to resonate with viewers who appreciate in-depth historical exploration and may appeal to educators seeking supplementary resources. While it may not captivate a broader audience primarily seeking entertainment, for those with a genuine interest in the formative years of the United States, the series presents its narrative with the meticulous polish of a museum exhibition. Clear visual cues, elegant serif fonts, and carefully composed imagery guide the viewer through critical historical junctures.
The series distinguishes itself from what could be considered superficial or algorithmically generated content through its commitment to high-quality production. Lavishly produced reenactments, akin to those found in prestige dramas, are judiciously employed to depict moments of conflict and debate. The narrative is further enriched by the resonant voice of Martin Sheen, whose readings of George Washington’s personal correspondence lend an undeniable gravitas to the portrayal of the first president. This emphasis on educational depth over pure entertainment is further underscored by the involvement of Tom Hanks, who serves as an executive producer through his company, Playtone. The selection of Hanks, an actor and producer with a reputation for historical accuracy in his projects, signals a commitment to substantive storytelling.
A Chorus of Voices, A Deeper Understanding
"The American Experiment" draws upon a vast roster of talking-head contributors, including esteemed academics, authors, and politicians. Notably, the series incorporates perspectives from Black and Native scholars, aiming to offer a more multifaceted view of a history often presented through a predominantly Eurocentric lens. While the series does not fundamentally reorient our understanding of the founding period, it significantly deepens it by providing context and nuance to familiar narratives.
The series’ central thesis, as its title suggests, is to underscore the notion of the "American experiment" as precisely that: an ongoing endeavor initiated by fallible individuals, yielding imperfect outcomes. This contrasts with the idea of a divinely ordained destiny. The documentary illustrates this by humanizing the key players. George Washington, as a consistent central figure, undergoes a compelling arc of development, evolving from a brash young man to a seasoned statesman. The series also brings other significant figures to life through vivid biographical details. For instance, the personal life of Gouverneur Morris, the Pennsylvanian who penned the Preamble to the Constitution, is explored, including his reputation as a womanizer and the rumored circumstances surrounding his peg leg. While such details may not be directly consequential to the outcome of the Constitutional Convention, they contribute to a richer understanding of the individuals grappling with the monumental task of nation-building in a sweltering room.
The Unforeseen Challenges of Nationhood
The series meticulously details how no single step in the country’s founding was predetermined. The decision to rebel against British rule, the outcome of the Revolutionary War, and the choice to form a unified nation were all subjects of intense debate and precarious uncertainty. For example, by examining the economic context of the Boston Tea Party, including the relatively low price of tea, the series allows viewers to imagine alternative scenarios where colonists might have simply consumed the taxed commodity. Similarly, the portrayal of Washington’s initial dismissal of Black soldiers, who were then recruited by the British, highlights how short-sighted decisions could have jeopardized the war effort.
Confronting the "1,000-Pound Elephant"
Amidst these hard-won achievements, "The American Experiment" directly confronts the pervasive and deeply ingrained issue of slavery, referring to it as the "1,000-pound elephant in the room." The series effectively elucidates the abhorrent implications of compromises such as the Three-Fifths Compromise. As Jelani Cobb, Dean of Columbia Journalism School, articulates, this compromise allowed states to "use the bodies of enslaved people to subsidize the political authority of the people who are enslaving them.” However, the documentary’s engagement with this historical reality, while precise, tends to focus on the past. It refrains from drawing explicit connections to contemporary movements like Black Lives Matter, which are depicted in sporadic montages of more recent history, potentially leaving viewers to forge those links themselves.
The Enduring Specter of Hyper-Partisanship
In later segments, the series identifies hyper-partisanship as another significant challenge that the Founding Fathers failed to fully anticipate. To address this, the documentary features a diverse array of modern politicians from across the political spectrum. The relevance of some contributions is readily apparent. For instance, Hillary Clinton’s commentary on the shortcomings of the Electoral College offers a contemporary perspective on a foundational structural element. Similarly, former Vice President Mike Pence, a figure associated with the events of January 6th, discusses the crucial importance of peaceful transitions of power.
However, the overall impact of these modern political interventions can be polarizing. Depending on a viewer’s political leanings, their contributions might elicit frustration or even anger rather than inspiration. For example, listening to Senator Ted Cruz praise George Washington for his supposed lack of "power-hunger" may be met with skepticism, given Cruz’s perceived alignment with a president often characterized as prioritizing power. Likewise, hearing Secretary Clinton advocate for "principled compromise" might evoke a sense of exasperation for those who believe her party has historically made too many concessions.
A Legacy of Uncertainty and Resilience
The series offers a degree of solace by reminding viewers that the anxieties and uncertainties plaguing the nation today are not unprecedented. As one political analyst observes, virtually every generation of Americans has grappled with the existential question of their nation’s survival, dating back to its inception. This recurring theme of precariousness, coupled with the realization that the American experiment could have faltered at any point, also serves as a stark reminder that its future remains contingent.
The documentary concludes not with a triumphant anthem of patriotism, but with a moment of profound reflection. Delaware Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester’s declaration, "I’m not gonna lean back. I’m not gonna quit. I’m not gonna stop. Democracy is worth it," is followed by a lingering shot. As the camera continues to roll, she pauses, taking a breath. She appears to begin speaking again, only to stop, her gaze drifting into the distance as if contemplating the uncertain path ahead. This final scene, "The American Experiment" suggests, encapsulates the enduring and complex reality of the American experience itself – a continuous, evolving, and often uncertain endeavor.
