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NOVA: Revolutionary War Weapons

How did a ragtag army defeat the most powerful army in the world to win American independence? Discover the key military technologies that helped propel the colonies to victory, from the Brown Bess musket to the world’s first military submarine.

Stream now with KPBS Passport / Watch Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025 at 9 p.m. on KPBS TV + Sunday, Nov. 30 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2 + Thursday, Dec. 4 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2

In 1775, a ragtag army of farmers and tradesmen went to war against the most powerful army in the world, ultimately winning American independence. What military technologies did the American colonies use in their fight for freedom, and how did they help propel them to one of history’s most unlikely victories?

Archaeologists and historians uncover the real stories of innovation, skill, and strategy that determined the outcome of important battles. From the Brown Bess musket to the world’s first military submarine, get a closeup look at the powerful and sometimes ingenious weapons that helped the colonies win the war.

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