I don’t believe it is overstated to say that this speech is a masterpiece. It speaks an undeniable truth about our nation and only adds to Ken Burns’ legacy as one of America’s great storytellers.
Amazing. I've always been a fan of his documentaries. My appreciation level just went up several notches. I hope recent graduates and fellow citizens heed his call.
USA is always great and and greatest country due to high standards of education and citizens values,am in Africa,but I wish one Day to visit a greatest country of all,and I congregate The Way of democracy, where even a formal president is not above low,thanks for your humanism ,and a comfort speech ,
I am 81 years old, lawyer, retired judge, professor for 57 years, mother of 3 and grandmother of 6, and I have never heard a more magnificent deeply moving speech, commencement or otherwise, in my entire life than this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mr. Burns.
Your thoughts brought a tear for my admiration of US Treasure, Ken Burns and you for all you have given to others. I'll be watching MSNBC this afternoon to catch a few more moments of Mr. Ken. My husband raved and often quoted Twain. Happy Memorial Day and D Day🫶🇺🇲🌹
I am in tears listening to the wise words of this good man. We are so blessed to have this great historian and patriot, to teach us all. Thank you, Ken Burns, for entertaining, challenging, holding up a mirror, and helping to "form a more perfect Union". I am a 64 year old retired state prosecutor, after 30 years of practice devoted to giving voice to victims of crime. After a life revering the work of government, public service, and the courts, the current morally bankrupt state of the Supreme Court breaks my heart. We pass on to the next generation a Nation less free, less united, Earth polluted, and divisions so deep they seem insurmountable. We can do better and we must.
Did you see the punks in the audience and the milquetoast behind Burns showing zero acknowledgement that democracy deserves to be upheld and defended? Even Brandeis admitted junk. Their admissions team needs a wake up call.
We do not live in a democracy here in the USA. It is a republic. There is a huge difference. Please learn the difference, and then you will stop calling the USA a democracy because you will know better.
@@peterburkey3740 The US is a democratic republic. The words are interchangeable. Seriously, your right wing limited command of US political history needs to be set down and you simply call on Wikipedia and Google. You will definitely find what you need. Welcome to our democracy.
Seriously?! Burns can't even acknowledge that the US is a corrupt oligarchy. Can't acknowledge that he has always behaved as a tool of ever-bigger government his entire career. But if this speech soothes the people at indoctrination camps like Brandeis...well, Orwell was prescient.
Brilliant! Mr Burns has always made history come alive for me and in this speech, he made "today" come alive. Perpetuate the experiment, refuse to be a Trump slave!
I refuse to be a slave to soviet shills and the ”climate change” death cult. I have only one vote: Trump 2024. I won’t flee to the biggest carbon emitter of all: China.
I have always enjoyed listening to Mr. Burns' storytelling. He definitely has a gift. In his words though are where lines are drawn in the sand. If we agree to not be a Trump slave are we in turn agreeing we accept Biden's slavery?
Ken Burns is neither Lincoln nor a president, and I'm sure not in a position to attempt the unification of our nation which is much larger and more complex than under Lincoln. If his telling of the truth looks like division to you, it's more than likely because somebody in this country is spinning the opposite of truth, thus necessitating the need for people like Ken Burns.
I don't even remember who spoke at my commencement, 46 years ago. These kids are lucky - this speech was memorable. I hope they listened and took every word to heart.
They, and we, are so lucky to live at a time when we all can save and RELISTEN to his beautiful insights and words. I suspect many will listen more than once! I've saved this one to be able to relisten often.
@@Nexxarian 😂 Thanks I needed that, now I don’t feel so bad not remembering mine from almost 50 years ago. We and many more, undoubtably know, our commencement speeches were not as memorable as any gifted by Ken Burns.
it will even be more memorable if trumps wins because Burns will be highlighted with many others about how America was warned of its pending loss of its republic. it will be studied, much like the Germany and Italy, in history classes all across Europe because schools will teach a different history here. I still have faith that most of us will vote to keep trump out of office but at times i have my doubts.
This commencement speech is truly the best commentary I have ever read. Ken Burns words should be heeded by all citizens with such an important election in the fall.
Ken Burns is a genius and a master of public speaking and a wordsmith without equal. Thanks so so much for making this available and I hope it can be aired on PBS.
Every 2024 graduate - and everyone else - should listen to Ken Burns' 20 minutes of wisdom for this critical year, this critical time in the stability of the world.
@@marwar819 if it walks like a duck, talks like a duck and sounds like a duck, then it is probably a duck. Trump sounds like all despots in history right before they gained power. he uses the same methods as all despots have used to gain power. that is about the only examination that is need, which i tried to explain in my first sentence.
Historians are the best to understand and be so alarmed at what is going wrong in our nation. John Meacham is also excellent at distilling this down and comparing this time to equally disturbing periods in our history, though he and Burns would agree that we've never had to fight fascism on our own shore in this way. There is no comparison and the American Experiment is in jeopardy. It's not all due to one former guy. It's the 40 or 50 years preceding this time that led us here.
I want all freedom-loving world leaders to be this clear, and loud, and courageous in opposing trump. If we go over the cliff this November, right-wing extremists in other democratic nations will be empowered to follow suit. This is not a US problem, it is a GLOBAL "us" problem. Thank you, Ken Burns, for a speech delivered so eloquently from the heart of so many, the world over.
God bless you, Ken Burns! What a magnificent speech, so desperately needed for our times of turmoil. Your contributions to bettering the American people through the powerful stories of our history are inestimable.
Wow, concise description of how history should be viewed. Burns can lay claim as, Historian of Historians.Thank you Ken Burns for your Service to History and us.
Of course, as this is a Ken Burns speech it is well written and well presented. I of course agree with his many references and his recommendation for the coming election. However, I think his references do support the Santayana quote, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." As his quote from Ecclesiastes states, "History merely repeats itself...Nothing under the sun is truly new." It depends at how you define history. Of course the details of events, of technology, of political or economic systems are not repeated exactly the same. But, what is the same, and what makes cycles happen, is the repetition of human nature. Human nature, both its good and bad characteristics, drive how civilizations rise and how they fall. Again, Burns quotes Lincoln in saying the danger to our country is from ourselves. This has always been true, not just for us, but for all civilizations. Almost all powerful and rich civilizations, the empires of the Romans, Chinese, and Islam for example, collapsed because of civil war, of internal dissension and violent divisive conflict. Their leaders became corrupt and self-serving, and contenders and "reformers" rose up, and the people no longer felt a need to obey and support the leaders. At the start of countries and civilizations leaders convince people to make sacrifices for the common good. But, over time, the new leaders are born into wealth and act as spoiled egotists, while in society individual material success becomes more important than the common good. So, the historian Will Durant wrote, "Civilizations are born stoic and die epicurean." Only if we know about and understand these patterns of behavior can we recognize and break free from them. So, understanding history, or "remembering the past", turns out to be perhaps among the most important things we can learn in schools, and in life. Burns of course believes this too, since his whole life has been about helping us understand history. Only by seeing present events from the perspective of history can we see patterns that are playing out. So, H.G. Welles wrote, " Civilizations is in a race between education and catastrophe." There is hope, as G.K. Chesterton wrote, " I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on them unless they act."
Sadly many can not understand the gravity and significance of this speech. It is beyond their comprehension. It is way too deep. It's more than two lines or a quick gotcha.
Ken Burns is my absolute hero. I have always admired his work. This was such a powerful speech and I hope with all my heart that people will really listen to it and understand what he is talking about
And yet he makes a clearly biased statement about "them" regarding this year's election. He's very binary there, and some of "us" completely disagree with him. It's a conundrum.
This speech is everything I thought & expected it to be! I would never expect anything less from him. Honest, well thought out, well spoken, & from his heart. He is truly a national, world, & humanitarian treasure!
As a retired teacher, I hope that this speech becomes a key part of the curriculum of every Political Science class, not just in this country, but in all countries. These words and thoughts, like those of Brandeis and Singer, Jefferson and Lincoln, should be remembered and repeated for future generations.
Have never been prouder to be a Brandeis alum. Am part of an informal Zoom group of women in our class (‘62) that’s been meeting monthly for the past four years. One of our members attended this graduation to watch her grandson receive his diploma and raved about Ken Burns’ address. Thank you for making this video available. We’re all watching it and sending it to everyone we can … especially young people.
You have no idea how barbaric you are. I guess it's warm and cozy where you are - away from the Holocaust and Hamas. Away from those people - "Jews" dr anna
Congratulations. I guess it was a special needs class. Ken Burns represents *The party of Jew-haters: Democrats refuse to sanction International Criminal Court for targeting the Israeli leader - 155 Democrats side with Jew-hating states*
Ken Burns is an incredible filmmaker, historian, and storyteller. I’ve seen all of his documentaries. His most recent documentary on the United States and the Holocaust is a masterpiece. I truly hope Americans, young and old, will heed Mr. Burns’ words and realize this country is ours to take back from potential authoritarian rule. We must meet this moment with the thoughtful understanding that our voice will have an effect on generations to come.
We all need to share this incredible speech with everyone we know. He is what Americans should inspire to. Thank you Ken Burns for your kindness, perceptiveness and transparency. You are truly an American treasure.
Absolutely BRILLIANT and ASTONISHING. Words we all need to hear so badly. The only speech I think I've ever looped. It reads like poetry with truth dripping from every period.
I have followed Ken Burns for a long time he is masterful. I love how he quoted my favorite author and advocate the late James Baldwin. This was a great speech. What an honor for those graduates to have him deliver this master piece. Take heed young people go forward and change the world for the better.
This is an important speech that should be attended to by all Americans. I hope that Brandeis will do whatever it takes to remove the incessant commercials. This message is too critical to our future for distractions that interrupt the flow in service to "monetization". I would hope that Google/TH-cam follows suite. This speech should become front and center of America's attention through election day and beyond.
Every high school graduate, like me, should see this. My dad sent me this and I've listened to this twice. It really shows in these comments the wisdom of all these people and the dedication of listening to every word of Ken's. Knowing that so many people are watching this of all ages, races, and sexes, shows that there is hope for our generation and the future to come. Also love the subtle message! Very well spoken!
Wow! Wow! The most moving speech, I have experienced since Obama’s and Kennedys So timely and to the point in time This may live as one of those speech that should be required to be memorized in the high school text.
Ken Burns hit that commencement speech right out of the park! Wow!! Such a powerful and excellent commencement speech. All Americans should listen to this speech for these troubled times.
Like the retired professor in Chapel Hill (comment above)I too am an octogenarian retired professor (UC Davis, in my case) who has also experienced too many painful, forgettable commencement speeches. This one was masterful and insightful. Bravo! 18:34
Thank you, Ken Burns. Your mastery of history, literature and storytelling is a gift for our nation. And your charge to the graduates is a road we should all follow, regardless of our age, experience or beliefs .
Ken Burns is a historian who has a gift of explaining history like no other! Anyone can understand his message without explanation!! Thanks Ken the entire Country needs this right now ! David Bossart, Fargo North Dakota
Thank you Mr. Burns for so succinctly telling us about ourselves at this moment. And, thank you for laying out the choice we have in front of us. There is no them…there is only US! Thank you for your advice to the students
Thank you Mr. Burns for your timely, yet timeless reminder that we the people, all of us, are capable of recognizing the complexity in the good, the bad, the beautiful, the vulgar. We must reflect solemnly about who and what we want to be. Vote!
As an adult I/we have the experience of history to see why all that Mr. Burns speaks of is so relevant. I hope that the graduates were able to absorb even a fragment of his masterclass of a commencement speech.
Excellent choice for a keynote speaker, well done Brandeis. And well done to you, Mr. Burns, on a much needed speech at the most needed time. Thank you, sir.
I do not think I have ever heard a better speech; this rivals Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. It is 24 minutes, but please take the time and watch the entire speech. Poetic, timely, and eloquent. Thank you Ken Burns.
Absolutely brilliant words and advice to those listening to him.Ken Burns is a national treasure and we should recognize that and live by the American standards he spoke of. He is a most effective voice for “ us” ,against those who are attempting to destroy our democracy . Thank you for breaking your rule of neutrality, words are an effective weapon against tyranny!
The way the applause separates the “could you” from the question that follows. Wow. Could you? [distinguish between the dead?] 💔 Let this speech and its clips go viral. 🙏🏼
As an 84 year old retired professor I have listened to far too many commencement addresses. All but two were forgettable: this one by Ken Burns and another by Francis Collins at UNC about 20 or so years ago.
This is perhaps the most magnificent address I have ever been privileged to witness, to listen to and absorb into my soul. Ken Burns is a brilliant filmmaker. No one could rightfully dispute it. But he is so much more. He possesses a brilliant mind and a heart full of the history he imparts.
I have watched many of Mr. Burns’ films over the years and always learn something new from them. Absolutely brilliant speech! So glad I listened and watched this video. Be humble and be kind to others. Vote Blue! 💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙
13:03 the wisest words about the importance and choices of this 2024 election ever uttered. Ken Burns speaks with intelligence, insightfulness and above all else integrity.
They always come for the academics first and there is a reason. We are seeing it in Louisiana with Landry attempting to take over the higher ed system and purge any critics of his policies.
I recently heard someone tell me how colleges brainwash kids to become liberals. Colleges don't do that...exposure to lots of other people from lots of other cultures with lots of other ideas is what creates liberals.
Mr. Burns you are a master of the truth, so well spoken and forthright and able to express yourself in words we can all understand. This election will test our democracy to our very core. Just watched you on the news and saw how passionate you are and know you will continue to prevail in your battle to save it. Thank You Mr Burns
Not a fan of Abrahamic religions and Burns is brilliant. Bless him and his work especially with Baldwin. Graduates you are blessed. Now serve the greater good. WE are One. Vote Blue 💙 🌍
Could be the most eloquent speech I have ever heard. Shakespearean comes to mind. Delivered by a man who has spent his life trying to better understand us. Every word perfectly chosen and beautifully spoken and a message that every US citizen needs to hear now.
I’ve never been a Democrat or wanted to be associated as being a member of the party. I did not vote for Obama or his GOP opponents. But I did vote for Joe Biden and I’m going to vote for him again. And it’s going to be the most confident and proud vote of my life. If that monster returns to the Oval Office we are in for truly dark times and the end of the Republic. Bravo, Mr Burns
@@garethrice1266And Bidumb is a war criminal. But then so is old man Bush, W, Cheney, Obama and Hillary if you count Libya. We are the bullies and terrorists of the world. Think odcone country that attacked us. Some Saudis but I can give you a list of who we've attacked starting with day one and the Pilgrims. Mexico, Cuba, central America, Phillipines, Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, Vietnam Nam, Cambodia, Laos, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, Somalia, miss any? Sanctions are used to destroy as well. I'm not proud, Im not religious, America cured me. Ive traveled the world, worked outside the US and were not the greatest country by a long shot. . And were getting worse.
This is a speech that we need to pass on to all people to understand the world we have created in the US. All Americans need to learn from this speech because he is right on point about the future of the country.
I don’t believe it is overstated to say that this speech is a masterpiece. It speaks an undeniable truth about our nation and only adds to Ken Burns’ legacy as one of America’s great storytellers.
It truly was, I've never heard a better speaker.
Amazing. I've always been a fan of his documentaries. My appreciation level just went up several notches. I hope recent graduates and fellow citizens heed his call.
Thank you
I wholeheartedly agree!!!! Well said!!!!
USA is always great and and greatest country due to high standards of education and citizens values,am in Africa,but I wish one Day to visit a greatest country of all,and I congregate The Way of democracy, where even a formal president is not above low,thanks for your humanism ,and a comfort speech ,
I am 81 years old, lawyer, retired judge, professor for 57 years, mother of 3 and grandmother of 6, and I have never heard a more magnificent deeply moving speech, commencement or otherwise, in my entire life than this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mr. Burns.
There is none.
Your thoughts brought a tear for my admiration of US Treasure, Ken Burns and you for all you have given to others. I'll be watching MSNBC this afternoon to catch a few more moments of Mr. Ken. My husband raved and often quoted Twain. Happy Memorial Day and D Day🫶🇺🇲🌹
I am 81 years old. I totally agree!
Amen to that.
Agree.
I am in tears listening to the wise words of this good man. We are so blessed to have this great historian and patriot, to teach us all. Thank you, Ken Burns, for entertaining, challenging, holding up a mirror, and helping to "form a more perfect Union". I am a 64 year old retired state prosecutor, after 30 years of practice devoted to giving voice to victims of crime. After a life revering the work of government, public service, and the courts, the current morally bankrupt state of the Supreme Court breaks my heart. We pass on to the next generation a Nation less free, less united, Earth polluted, and divisions so deep they seem insurmountable. We can do better and we must.
There is reason for hope to sustain this Democracy. Thank you Brandeis and Mr. Burns!
Did you see the punks in the audience and the milquetoast behind Burns showing zero acknowledgement that democracy deserves to be upheld and defended? Even Brandeis admitted junk. Their admissions team needs a wake up call.
Representative Republic
We do not live in a democracy here in the USA. It is a republic. There is a huge difference. Please learn the difference, and then you will stop calling the USA a democracy because you will know better.
@@peterburkey3740 The US is a democratic republic. The words are interchangeable. Seriously, your right wing limited command of US political history needs to be set down and you simply call on Wikipedia and Google. You will definitely find what you need. Welcome to our democracy.
I agree with Mr. Burns. I enjoy the 249 years old experiment.
Bravo Mr. Burns, a commencement speech for the ages, & especially for these trying times...Thank you!
Magnificent Ken Burns. So glad I stumbled across it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart
Hear Hear!!
Agree!
Wow. How humbling.
Seriously?! Burns can't even acknowledge that the US is a corrupt oligarchy. Can't acknowledge that he has always behaved as a tool of ever-bigger government his entire career. But if this speech soothes the people at indoctrination camps like Brandeis...well, Orwell was prescient.
Brilliant! Mr Burns has always made history come alive for me and in this speech, he made "today" come alive. Perpetuate the experiment, refuse to be a Trump slave!
The MAGA and GOP that kiss his rings are nothing but Trump’s slave.
Agree!
Refuse to be a Democrat 🐑.
I refuse to be a slave to soviet shills and the ”climate change” death cult. I have only one vote: Trump 2024. I won’t flee to the biggest carbon emitter of all: China.
I have always enjoyed listening to Mr. Burns' storytelling. He definitely has a gift. In his words though are where lines are drawn in the sand. If we agree to not be a Trump slave are we in turn agreeing we accept Biden's slavery?
I'm a 70 ear old retired military lawyer, served the nation during three wars. I was moved by Mr. Burns eloquent words.
Thank you.
This amazing address is the Gettysburgh Address for 2024. Thank you Mr. Burns.👏👏👏
I loved Ken Burn's address. But the Gettysburgh Address was much shorter, which gave it its enduring power.
@@Achill101 That is an accurate comment! Well done.👏
Agree!
Lincoln united the country. This speech only added to the division.
Ken Burns is neither Lincoln nor a president, and I'm sure not in a position to attempt the unification of our nation which is much larger and more complex than under Lincoln.
If his telling of the truth looks like division to you, it's more than likely because somebody in this country is spinning the opposite of truth, thus necessitating the need for people like Ken Burns.
This speech should be
Aired on television.
PBS.
And on Fox News.
@@ced7103- it's not rage-filled enough for Fox News 🙃
Yes! Put on ALL news stations and play until November! Thank you, Mr. Burns exceptional speech!
Yes! On all News Stations, until November! Thank you, Mr. Burns, AWESOME speech! 💙
It should be aired on every channel.
Ken Burns outlined more than a commencement speech, he delivered the ultimate master class to all. Bravo!👏
I don't even remember who spoke at my commencement, 46 years ago. These kids are lucky - this speech was memorable. I hope they listened and took every word to heart.
They, and we, are so lucky to live at a time when we all can save and RELISTEN to his beautiful insights and words. I suspect many will listen more than once! I've saved this one to be able to relisten often.
Exactly my thoughts.
@@Nexxarian
😂 Thanks I needed that, now I don’t feel so bad not remembering mine from almost 50 years ago. We and many more, undoubtably know, our commencement speeches were not as memorable as any gifted by Ken Burns.
it will even be more memorable if trumps wins because Burns will be highlighted with many others about how America was warned of its pending loss of its republic. it will be studied, much like the Germany and Italy, in history classes all across Europe because schools will teach a different history here. I still have faith that most of us will vote to keep trump out of office but at times i have my doubts.
I have no idea who spoke at mine, either. And that was 30 years ago!
The best speech I’ve ever heard; should be spread far and wide.
You haven't heard enough speeches.
This commencement speech is truly the best commentary I have ever read. Ken Burns words should be heeded by all citizens with such an important election in the fall.
I agree!
Ken Burns is a genius and a master wo
Ken Burns is a genius and a master of public speaking and a wordsmith without equal. Thanks so so much for making this available and I hope it can be aired on PBS.
Every 2024 graduate - and everyone else - should listen to Ken Burns' 20 minutes of wisdom for this critical year, this critical time in the stability of the world.
Ken Burns is a mega liberal so isn't Brandeis. That's why he is the speaker.
In a sane world, this would go viral. Every citizen needs to hear it.
Read the comments here. Sanity left the room a long time ago.
In a sane world, we wouldn't need it to go viral.
Maybe every citizen should hear it but, no one should accept it without examining it.
@@marwar819 it seems quite plain and straightforward. By all means examine, but if you come to a different conclusion, that says a lot about you.
@@marwar819 if it walks like a duck, talks like a duck and sounds like a duck, then it is probably a duck. Trump sounds like all despots in history right before they gained power. he uses the same methods as all despots have used to gain power. that is about the only examination that is need, which i tried to explain in my first sentence.
Absolutley the words we all need to hear thank you, Ken Burns, the historian of our time
Same words he spoke nearly 8 years ago. It’s long overdue for this guy to find a new shtick.
@@norcaldeemichaelsnice use of Yiddish, bra
@@norcaldeemichaels haters gonna hate, right?
Historians are the best to understand and be so alarmed at what is going wrong in our nation. John Meacham is also excellent at distilling this down and comparing this time to equally disturbing periods in our history, though he and Burns would agree that we've never had to fight fascism on our own shore in this way. There is no comparison and the American Experiment is in jeopardy. It's not all due to one former guy. It's the 40 or 50 years preceding this time that led us here.
@@norcaldeemichaelscynicism is ugly
I want all freedom-loving world leaders to be this clear, and loud, and courageous in opposing trump. If we go over the cliff this November, right-wing extremists in other democratic nations will be empowered to follow suit. This is not a US problem, it is a GLOBAL "us" problem. Thank you, Ken Burns, for a speech delivered so eloquently from the heart of so many, the world over.
hence, why today's gop loves going to Hungary... scary
Absolutely.
Brilliantly stated!
Absolutely!
th-cam.com/video/pOxlxXa_coM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=YGOLSyZ6dY4ISsjs
God bless you, Ken Burns! What a magnificent speech, so desperately needed for our times of turmoil. Your contributions to bettering the American people through the powerful stories of our history are inestimable.
Wow, concise description of how history should be viewed. Burns can lay claim as, Historian of Historians.Thank you Ken Burns for your Service to History and us.
Of course, as this is a Ken Burns speech it is well written and well presented. I of course agree with his many references and his recommendation for the coming election. However, I think his references do support the Santayana quote, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." As his quote from Ecclesiastes states, "History merely repeats itself...Nothing under the sun is truly new." It depends at how you define history. Of course the details of events, of technology, of political or economic systems are not repeated exactly the same. But, what is the same, and what makes cycles happen, is the repetition of human nature. Human nature, both its good and bad characteristics, drive how civilizations rise and how they fall. Again, Burns quotes Lincoln in saying the danger to our country is from ourselves. This has always been true, not just for us, but for all civilizations. Almost all powerful and rich civilizations, the empires of the Romans, Chinese, and Islam for example, collapsed because of civil war, of internal dissension and violent divisive conflict. Their leaders became corrupt and self-serving, and contenders and "reformers" rose up, and the people no longer felt a need to obey and support the leaders. At the start of countries and civilizations leaders convince people to make sacrifices for the common good. But, over time, the new leaders are born into wealth and act as spoiled egotists, while in society individual material success becomes more important than the common good. So, the historian Will Durant wrote, "Civilizations are born stoic and die epicurean." Only if we know about and understand these patterns of behavior can we recognize and break free from them. So, understanding history, or "remembering the past", turns out to be perhaps among the most important things we can learn in schools, and in life. Burns of course believes this too, since his whole life has been about helping us understand history. Only by seeing present events from the perspective of history can we see patterns that are playing out. So, H.G. Welles wrote, " Civilizations is in a race between education and catastrophe." There is hope, as G.K. Chesterton wrote, " I do not believe in a fate that falls on men however they act; but I do believe in a fate that falls on them unless they act."
Beautiful! 21:41
You are kidding, aren't you?
dr anna, actually a historian
This should be listened to by every American...thank you Ken Burns❤
Sadly many can not understand the gravity and significance of this speech. It is beyond their comprehension. It is way too deep. It's more than two lines or a quick gotcha.
Amen
Tremendous speech, Ken is always trying to make us all better people. We should all try and make this world a better place for all people.
Ken Burns is my absolute hero. I have always admired his work. This was such a powerful speech and I hope with all my heart that people will really listen to it and understand what he is talking about
Unfortunately will be Over the heads if those who NEED to hear it
Let’s hope not.
Bravo, Mr. Burns!! The future of democracy is in everyone’s hands.
Burns destroys the concept of "us" vs "Them". Beautifully articulated.
And yet he makes a clearly biased statement about "them" regarding this year's election. He's very binary there, and some of "us" completely disagree with him. It's a conundrum.
A soldier of words. Our gallant American hero. This should be heard by every American.
ChatGPT elevating Ken’s wordsmith game 😂
I am truly inspired by Mr. Burns to be a better human being.
I wouldn't say better, after all he is divorced. I would say better educated.
The Power of the WORD! Indicative of a modern day: "I Have a Dream" speech! Bloomed from KB's soul! Bravo! Bravo!!!
This address was beautiful and profound, imparting education and inspiration galore.
This speech is everything I thought & expected it to be! I would never expect anything less from him. Honest, well thought out, well spoken, & from his heart. He is truly a national, world, & humanitarian treasure!
As a retired teacher, I hope that this speech becomes a key part of the curriculum of every Political Science class, not just in this country, but in all countries. These words and thoughts, like those of Brandeis and Singer, Jefferson and Lincoln, should be remembered and repeated for future generations.
Have never been prouder to be a Brandeis alum. Am part of an informal Zoom group of women in our class (‘62) that’s been meeting monthly for the past four years. One of our members attended this graduation to watch her grandson receive his diploma and raved about Ken Burns’ address. Thank you for making this video available. We’re all watching it and sending it to everyone we can … especially young people.
You have no idea how barbaric you are. I guess it's warm and cozy where you are - away from the Holocaust and Hamas. Away from those people - "Jews"
dr anna
Congratulations. I guess it was a special needs class.
Ken Burns represents *The party of Jew-haters: Democrats refuse to sanction International Criminal Court for targeting the Israeli leader - 155 Democrats side with Jew-hating states*
This speech is a Masterpiece!
Ken Burns is an incredible filmmaker, historian, and storyteller. I’ve seen all of his documentaries. His most recent documentary on the United States and the Holocaust is a masterpiece. I truly hope Americans, young and old, will heed Mr. Burns’ words and realize this country is ours to take back from potential authoritarian rule. We must meet this moment with the thoughtful understanding that our voice will have an effect on generations to come.
th-cam.com/video/pOxlxXa_coM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=YGOLSyZ6dY4ISsjs
Ken Burns is a national treasure. I hope this speech gets wide circulation
We all need to share this incredible speech with everyone we know. He is what Americans should inspire to. Thank you Ken Burns for your kindness, perceptiveness and transparency. You are truly an American treasure.
Absolutely BRILLIANT and ASTONISHING. Words we all need to hear so badly. The only speech I think I've ever looped. It reads like poetry with truth dripping from every period.
Please, share this masterpiece of a speech far and wide!
I have followed Ken Burns for a long time he is masterful. I love how he quoted my favorite author and advocate the late James Baldwin. This was a great speech. What an honor for those graduates to have him deliver this master piece. Take heed young people go forward and change the world for the better.
This is an important speech that should be attended to by all Americans. I hope that Brandeis will do whatever it takes to remove the incessant commercials. This message is too critical to our future for distractions that interrupt the flow in service to "monetization". I would hope that Google/TH-cam follows suite. This speech should become front and center of America's attention through election day and beyond.
Google and TH-cam and tech-fascism is part of the enslavement and othering process.
Put a dash after the “t” in the url and use that link
Thank you , Mr. Burns, Thank You, Brandeis University for posting this.
I CAN NOT THANK MR. BURNS ENOUGH! FOR THIS PERFECT! SUMMATION OF OUR LITERAL CURRENT SITUATION!
This brought me to tears. So moving…
Ditto!
Grow up! smh
Every high school graduate, like me, should see this. My dad sent me this and I've listened to this twice. It really shows in these comments the wisdom of all these people and the dedication of listening to every word of Ken's. Knowing that so many people are watching this of all ages, races, and sexes, shows that there is hope for our generation and the future to come. Also love the subtle message! Very well spoken!
Wow!
Wow!
The most moving speech, I have experienced since Obama’s and Kennedys
So timely and to the point in time This may live as one of those speech that should be required to be memorized in the high school text.
The speech of the decade, if not the century.
Should be archived and studied by future generations.
Absurd statement.
Ken Burns hit that commencement speech right out of the park! Wow!! Such a powerful and excellent commencement speech. All Americans should listen to this speech for these troubled times.
It's as if Ken Burn's whole life led up to this speech. Phenomenal.
Thank you so much, Mr. Burns. Thanks for everything.
Like the retired professor in Chapel Hill (comment above)I too am an octogenarian retired professor (UC Davis, in my case) who has also experienced too many painful, forgettable commencement speeches. This one was masterful and insightful. Bravo!
18:34
Davis Alum here. Can confirm, I don't remember my commencement speaker. Or the speech. This was a masterclass.
Thank you, Ken Burns. Your mastery of history, literature and storytelling is a gift for our nation. And your charge to the graduates is a road we should all follow, regardless of our age, experience or beliefs
.
A brilliant speech delivered by an American treasure whose artistry has revealed truths about who we were, who we are, and who we can become.
Ken Burns is a historian who has a gift of explaining history like no other! Anyone can understand his message without explanation!! Thanks Ken the entire Country needs this right now ! David Bossart, Fargo North Dakota
Thank you Mr. Burns for so succinctly telling us about ourselves at this moment. And, thank you for laying out the choice we have in front of us. There is no them…there is only US!
Thank you for your advice to the students
Thank you Mr. Burns for your timely, yet timeless reminder that we the people, all of us, are capable of recognizing the complexity in the good, the bad, the beautiful, the vulgar. We must reflect solemnly about who and what we want to be. Vote!
I actually wept at the end of this powerful important commencement. Bravo on every level in every moment!
As an adult I/we have the experience of history to see why all that Mr. Burns speaks of is so relevant. I hope that the graduates were able to absorb even a fragment of his masterclass of a commencement speech.
Excellent choice for a keynote speaker, well done Brandeis. And well done to you, Mr. Burns, on a much needed speech at the most needed time. Thank you, sir.
This is the most important commencement address given by any speaker this year.
Thank you, Ken Burns.
I do not think I have ever heard a better speech; this rivals Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. It is 24 minutes, but please take the time and watch the entire speech. Poetic, timely, and eloquent. Thank you Ken Burns.
I was so moved by your speech. You spoke so eloquently and brought truth to the forefront. Amazing Ken.
Travel is fatal to prejudice.
Tell that to the British empire.... 😂
If only he could speak to all commencements…all young people need to learn and understand what is happening to their country 🇺🇸💙🇺🇸
Obviously Brilliant. Thank you!!! 🙏 I needed that. I know that we all did. God bless. Joe
A masterpiece of oratory! Thank you, Mr. Burns!
Thank you. I listened. I will reach out for these words again in my life.
Absolutely brilliant words and advice to those listening to him.Ken Burns is a national treasure and we should recognize that and live by the American standards he spoke of. He is a most effective voice for “ us” ,against those who are attempting to destroy our democracy . Thank you for breaking your rule of neutrality, words are an effective weapon against tyranny!
Ken Burns has always been respectful of all participants in the American experience, he continues to be.
Semper Fidelis
“Choose honor over hypocrisy.” This is sorely lacking in these last several years.
Virtue over vulgarity. We are living in VERY vulgarity times. Biden brought it on. He is destroying our culture.
I feel it is a duty to
share this beautiful understanding of ourselves!
Listen. Listen. This is a masterpiece. Hold it close.
Made the hair on my neck stand up and sent a shiver down my spine!!! PLEASE SHARE THIS!
🙄
The way the applause separates the “could you” from the question that follows. Wow. Could you? [distinguish between the dead?] 💔 Let this speech and its clips go viral. 🙏🏼
As an 84 year old retired professor I have listened to far too many commencement addresses. All but two were forgettable: this one by Ken Burns and another by Francis Collins at UNC about 20 or so years ago.
Forgettable? Unforgettable.
All were readily forgettable except for those by Burns and Collins.
What a speech!!! 🎯
Thnk you for that Sir. I agree.
This is perhaps the most magnificent address I have ever been privileged to witness, to listen to and absorb into my soul. Ken Burns is a brilliant filmmaker. No one could rightfully dispute it. But he is so much more. He possesses a brilliant mind and a heart full of the history he imparts.
You speak from the heart and the mind. A stirring piece. Exceptional and revealing. Thank you!
Thanks Ken Burns; one of the very best commencement speeches reminding us of virtue.
This is an education in and of itself.
Thanks Ken. Grand speech. Yes, let us "denounce oppression everywhere"!
I have watched many of Mr. Burns’ films over the years and always learn something new from them. Absolutely brilliant speech! So glad I listened and watched this video. Be humble and be kind to others. Vote Blue! 💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙
Nope. The Left are communist trying to overturn our constitution.
21:41 This is the best commencement speech, so meaningful, Mr Burns’s words brought tears to my eyes. Thank you.
13:03 the wisest words about the importance and choices of this 2024 election ever uttered. Ken Burns speaks with intelligence, insightfulness and above all else integrity.
No one cares
@@calloway1972 Sincerely hope you are wrong.
@@calloway1972very eloquent rebuttal. Well done.
bleep bleep don't vote for trump beep beep
that's what he said, unless i'm mistaken
The most significant speech I've ever listened to.
This should be required listening or reading for every student and parent at every university before they put one foot on any campus nationwide.
Not what I need but what we need Yes!! Grateful for this speech
Ken Burns 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽Thank You For Your Intelligent, Masterful And Poignant Words Shining Light On Where We Are As A Country And A People.
Thank you, Ken Burns, for caring so deeply for this country. Your speech brought tears to my eyes along with hope to my heart. ❤
More important words have never been spoken. Thank you Mr. Burns.
They always come for the academics first and there is a reason. We are seeing it in Louisiana with Landry attempting to take over the higher ed system and purge any critics of his policies.
I recently heard someone tell me how colleges brainwash kids to become liberals. Colleges don't do that...exposure to lots of other people from lots of other cultures with lots of other ideas is what creates liberals.
That’s why classes that develop a child’s critical thinking skills are being taken away too.
No doubt the most timely sermon of my time. Mr. Burns you have captured the moment, thank you Sir!
This man again proves , he is a National Treasure. I ,at 86 have been fortunate enough to witness men such as Burns in my life.
Mr. Burns you are a master of the truth, so well spoken and forthright and able to express yourself in words we can all understand. This election will test our democracy to our very core. Just watched you on the news and saw how passionate you are and know you will continue to prevail in your battle to save it. Thank You Mr Burns
Awesome speech we all need to hear this ❤
Not a fan of Abrahamic religions and Burns is brilliant. Bless him and his work especially with Baldwin. Graduates you are blessed. Now serve the greater good. WE are One. Vote Blue 💙 🌍
Voting in November ------- is NOT ABOUT POLITICS.
Yes it is
Politics is about power. November is about power, power of the wealthy.
Powerful! He has given me language to speak to young people that don’t understand what is at stake in our country or their future.
Best speech I’ve ever heard live
Guess you haven't listened to many...it was boring. He said nothing profound.
Could be the most eloquent speech I have ever heard. Shakespearean comes to mind. Delivered by a man who has spent his life trying to better understand us. Every word perfectly chosen and beautifully spoken and a message that every US citizen needs to hear now.
I’ve never been a Democrat or wanted to be associated as being a member of the party. I did not vote for Obama or his GOP opponents. But I did vote for Joe Biden and I’m going to vote for him again. And it’s going to be the most confident and proud vote of my life. If that monster returns to the Oval Office we are in for truly dark times and the end of the Republic.
Bravo, Mr Burns
Good, because Trump is the road to no town.
So true! Thanks for sharing
Thank you
@@garethrice1266And Bidumb is a war criminal. But then so is old man Bush, W, Cheney, Obama and Hillary if you count Libya. We are the bullies and terrorists of the world. Think odcone country that attacked us. Some Saudis but I can give you a list of who we've attacked starting with day one and the Pilgrims. Mexico, Cuba, central America, Phillipines, Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, Vietnam Nam, Cambodia, Laos, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, Somalia, miss any? Sanctions are used to destroy as well. I'm not proud, Im not religious, America cured me. Ive traveled the world, worked outside the US and were not the greatest country by a long shot. . And were getting worse.
th-cam.com/video/pOxlxXa_coM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=YGOLSyZ6dY4ISsjs
What a profound and important speech. Thank you, Ken Burns, for these words, and your amazing documentary work, stories for the ages...
This is a speech that we need to pass on to all people to understand the world we have created in the US. All Americans need to learn from this speech because he is right on point about the future of the country.
They have Harrison Butker, we have Ken Burns. This is what a commencement speech should be about.
Ding-ding-ding! Thanx be… 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🌊😎🐅🗳🌊💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🐝💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🌊🗳🌊🗳💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🌊🌊🗳🌊🌊💙💙💙🇺🇦💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🌊119th Congress🌊💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙🇺🇲💙💙💙💙
There is no they or them. Only us.
@@Paperoywhile that would be great, I’m afraid we are still fighting civilization going backwards. Nobody ever said evolution would be easy
And you appear to have missed its message.
@@mdf3006please…unsubscribe