TELLING AMERICA’S STORIES
THE BETTER ANGELS SOCIETY
The Better Angels Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating Americans about their history through documentary film. Our goal is to educate, engage and provoke thoughtful discussion among people of every political persuasion and ideology.
We work to ensure historically significant films are completed, broadcast, promoted, and shared in ways that reach and inform as many people as possible through robust educational and civic outreach. We are also working to ensure that the next generation of documentary filmmakers, inspired by Ken Burns and his team, receive the education, mentoring, training, and support they need to continue his legacy
WE SUPPORT
“More Americans get their history from Ken Burns than any other source.”
“History can help us connect with our better angels.”
“Ken Burns brings to life our American history like no one else, and does it in a way that is riveting, relevant and impactful. Simply remarkable.”
“We believe an understanding of history is critical to a healthy democracy.”
“Through his storytelling, Ken revives our often dormant moral conscience while giving a voice to the voiceless. He is a national treasure.”
The Better Angels is proud to sponsor awards dedicated to the next generation of documentary filmmakers.
JOIN
Join this vibrant community of dedicated, like-minded individuals.
The immediate goal of The Better Angels Society is to complete funding for the documentary films currently in production, as well as the educational engagement tools that accompany each film. In addition, we are funding specific projects that fulfill a larger long-term mission, such as film restoration and preservation, supporting a new generation of filmmakers, and creating the Ken Burns legacy.
WHAT’S NEW
LATEST NEWS
The Impact of College Behind Bars
We are excited to share some wonderful news: Congress has reversed the ban on Pell Grants for people in prison! As a result, hundreds of thousands of incarcerated men and women will have access
DONOR SPOTLIGHT
DONOR SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Rocco Landesman
Why do you think this film [Country Music] is important now? Country music as a genre
IN THE PRESS
The Impact of College Behind Bars
We are excited to share some wonderful news: Congress has reversed the ban on
THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS LAVINE/KEN BURNS PRIZE FOR FILM LAUNCHES MENTORSHIP PROGRAM FOR HISTORY DOCUMENTARIANS
The Better Angels Society and the Crimson Lion/Lavine Family Foundation today announced The Better
Ken Burns on TODAY Show: Coronavirus will be comparable to Great Depression in American history
PBS is releasing the award-winning documentaries of Ken Burns free to students in lockdown. Joining