South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) will premiere The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution on July 2 at 8 p.m. on ETV. Produced in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the documentary examines how South Carolina became a turning point in the Revolutionary War and how the battles fought across the South helped drive British forces toward defeat at Yorktown.
Featuring historians, reenactments and battlefield locations across South Carolina and North Carolina, the program highlights the sacrifices, strategy and resilience that shaped America’s fight for independence. Through expert analysis and historical interpretation, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the Southern Campaign and the critical role it played in securing victory for the colonies.
The documentary explores the fierce fighting that unfolded across the backcountry and the individuals whose actions helped alter the course of the war. From military leaders and ordinary citizens to Patriot and Loyalist forces, The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution presents the complexity of the conflict and the lasting impact it had on the founding of the nation.
Produced by SCETV, the documentary was created with production funding provided, in part, by the South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission (SC250). The program is part of SCETV’s broader efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and to highlight South Carolina’s central role in the struggle for independence.
SCETV will host its America 250 celebration on July 1 with two public events at the SCETV studios in Columbia. Walter Edgar’s Journal Live: Revolutionary Voices will take place from 10 a.m. to noon and feature a live recording of SC Public Radio’s Walter Edgar’s Journal, followed by a Q&A session and meet-and-greet with host Dr. Walter Edgar, producer and co-host Alfred Turner, and leaders from SC250.
The evening event, The Southern Campaign: A Revolutionary Evening, will include a reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. followed by a premiere screening of The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. Attendees will also view selected clips from The American Revolution, a documentary series by acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, which provides additional historical context surrounding the Revolutionary War.
Following the screening, historians and subject-matter experts will participate in a panel discussion moderated by SC Public Radio local host Reagan Knight. The conversation will examine the battles, people and enduring legacy of the Revolution in the South.
In addition to the broadcast, viewers can stream The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution on SCETV.org and PBS.org, as well as through the SCETV and PBS apps. To explore additional SCETV content recognizing the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, visit SCETV.org/250.
QUOTES
“South Carolina played a defining role in America’s fight for independence, and The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution offers viewers an opportunity to better understand the local people, places and events that helped shape our nation. Through compelling storytelling and historical scholarship, SCETV is honored to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary while preserving these important stories for future generations.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“South Carolina's Revolutionary story is America's story. The Revolution was not won in a single battle or a single colony. It was a long, complex struggle that eventually shifted south. Through SC250, communities across our state are helping tell the stories of the people, places and events that shaped our nation while creating opportunities for education, preservation, tourism and community pride.” –SC250 Chief Executive Officer Molly Fortune
"This documentary represents both a professional milestone and a deeply personal reflection on the stories that define South Carolina. It has been especially meaningful to help preserve the legacy of the men and women whose sacrifices during the Southern Campaign helped shape the course of American history for future generations." –The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Producer Steve Folks
"The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution brings together historians, reenactors and preservationists to tell a local story that remains vital to understanding how the Revolution was ultimately won. Through powerful locations, expert insight and historical interpretation, the documentary highlights the resilience and determination that defined the fight for independence across the South.” –The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Producer William Richardson
FAST FACTS
- SCETV premieres The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution on July 2 at 8 p.m. on ETV.
- The documentary explores how South Carolina became the turning point of the American Revolution and how battles fought across the South helped drive British forces toward defeat at Yorktown.
- Featuring historians, reenactments and battlefield locations across the Carolinas, the program examines the sacrifices, strategy and resilience that shaped America’s fight for independence.
- SCETV will host two free public events July 1, including Walter Edgar’s Journal Live: Revolutionary Voices and The Southern Campaign: A Revolutionary Evening, featuring a premiere screening and panel discussion.
- Viewers can stream The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution and additional America 250 programming on SCETV.org and PBS.org, as well as through the SCETV and PBS apps.
- To explore more SCETV content commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, visit SCETV.org/250.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Kitchen Curious with Vivian Howard, Reel South and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
