Academy Award-winning actor Tom Hanks and revered historian and filmmaker Ken Burns have issued a powerful and unprecedented joint statement, expressing profound concern over the current state of American political discourse. Their warning centres on the rhetoric of former President Donald Trump, which they argue dangerously mirrors the divisive language that precipitated the American Revolution.
The duo made these sobering comments while promoting their latest collaborative documentary project, a profound exploration of a pivotal moment in US history. They suggest that the foundational fractures which led to the revolution are being deliberately exploited and widened in today's political arena.
A Chilling Historical Parallel
Burns, renowned for his meticulously researched historical documentaries, provided the grave historical context. He explained that the American Revolution was not a unanimous uprising but a bitter civil war, pitting neighbour against neighbour. The language used by loyalists to the British crown and those seeking independence was fiercely divisive and dehumanising.
'We are committed to the proposition that the United States is an ongoing and great promise,' Hanks stated, his comments carrying the weight of his status as a modern-day chronicler of the American experience. 'But that promise is fragile and must be protected.'
The Target of Their Critique
While not explicitly naming him in every breath, the target of their critique was unequivocal. They expressed alarm at Trump's frequent characterisation of political opponents as 'vermin' and his framing of the upcoming election as a final 'battle' for the country. This language, they contend, is not new but a dangerous echo from a tumultuous past.
'This is not the first time we have been here,' Burns asserted, pointing to the historical precedent of such polarising talk. The implication was clear: this type of rhetoric has previously led the nation to the brink of collapse and open conflict.
More Than Just Entertainment
For both Hanks and Burns, their work transcends mere storytelling or entertainment. They see it as a vital civic duty—a means of using historical narrative to illuminate present-day dangers. Their new project is framed not just as a history lesson, but as a timely cautionary tale for a nation they believe is at a critical juncture.
Their intervention highlights the growing unease among cultural figures about the health of American democracy and the potential for political violence, turning a promotional interview into a significant moment of political commentary.
