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TED Audio Collective

Ken Burns confronting flawed American heroes | ReThinking

Jan 16, 2026
AI Summary
  • Ken Burns examines how origin stories shape collective American identity and why we struggle to recognize flaws in historical heroes
  • He reflects on nuanced research about complicated figures like George Washington, highlighting the complexity required in telling historical narratives
  • The discussion explores elements of effective storytelling and the characteristics that define great leaders throughout history

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