If you’re anything like me, you are totally immersed in all things America and 1770s this year. The Semiquincentennial is a perfect time to study and enjoy American history. But you probably have also noticed that it is extremely hard to find movies, set during the time period, that are clean and worthwhile.

Look no further! Here is a list of some movies and shows to enjoy as we prepare to celebrate our 250th birthday.

1. Washington’s Armor

We first watched this when it was quite new, and were pleasantly surprised that it was clean, historically accurate, and filled with faith. Since then, we rewatch it every so often.

It covers the miraculous life of George Washington prior to his days leading the American Revolution.

I am eagerly awaiting the sequel, “Washington’s Armor: Bulletproof”.

Due to war violence, this is probably one that is better suited for children in their teens and up.

2.The Swamp Fox

Vintage Walt Disney was just different than anything Disney produces today. This mini series was no exception. It is currently in the Disney Vault, which is very unfortunate in my opinion. But you can still find the episodes on YouTube!

While it is not entirely accurate, it is an interesting series showcasing the life and times of Francis Marion.

3. Ben And Me

This is an adorable little animated movie about a mouse who befriends Benjamin Franklin. It is, of course, highly fictional (it’s about a mouse…what else would you expect?), but it’s still a cute movie that your kids will love.

It’s especially great for little ones who aren’t quite old enough to watch other animated war series like Liberty’s Kids.

4. Liberty’s Kids

Of course this is the next on the list! Liberty’s Kids is a well written series that shows you the War for Independence through the eyes of a group of teenagers. They face the hardships and danger of war, starting with the Boston Tea Party and carrying us through the end of the war.

For being an animated series, it is surprisingly accurate.

5. A Great Awakening

Many times we view historical figures through an isolated lens. But what we don’t think about is how the life and death of many great men actually coincided with others. For example, did you know that George Whitefield and Benjamin Franklin were contemporaries. Not only that, but they were friends?

“A Great Awakening” shows the amazing story of how George Whitefield, the fiery preacher banished to the Colonies, influenced and helped birth America.

Although completely clean, this film does have some tense moments, so discretion is advised when considering a young audience.

6. Felicity: An American Girl

How could I create a list of awesome Revolutionary War movies without including “Felicity”? My sisters and I grew up on this movie. It was by far our favorite. (And might be where one sister got her love for horses.)

“Felicity” is a family friendly movie with themes of liberty, kindness, and perseverance.

7. Animated Hero Classics: George Washington

Did you know that Disney once honored our nation’s founders in their films? In fact they created an entire animated series dedicated to great men and women through history, many of whom are Americans.

The thing about this film that really shocked me though, was that they included the account of George Washington kneeling in the snow of Valley Forge to pray for his men and our nation. Oh that modern day television programs would acknowledge such things today!

8. Johnny Tremain

Is this one somewhat predictable, and lacking in the costuming? Yes. Is it highly nostalgic and brimming with the spirit of ’76? Also yes. Enough said.

But really, this is a great movie for the entire family.

9. A More Perfect Union

This movie is not about the Revolution, but rather the tumultuous years post-war. It covers the time when America almost lost everything that she had fought an entire war to gain.

It is my personal opinion that this should be shown in every classroom across our nation. It perfectly reveals the struggle our founders faced to build the government we have today.

The forming of our Constitution was truly a miracle from God. No one man in our nation’s founding had the perfect solution for government. In fact, all of their ideas, federalist or anti-federalist, were highly fallible in and of themselves. And when these men compromised and formed our current government, many of them viewed it as a failure. But in reality, God had miraculously brought together a “more perfect union”.

10. The Scarlet Coat

Everyone loves a good spy movie, right? For those looking for a clean alternative to shows like “Turn”, this is a good option. It’s entirely fictional, but still enjoyable.

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What movies are you enjoying this patriotic season? Let me know in the comments!

A. M. Watson

Hebrews 13:8