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National Parks: America's Best Idea

December 31, 1969
Ken Burns documentary filmmaker, Florentine Films
Dayton Duncan writer, filmmaker

Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan discuss their new six-part PBS documentary series The National Parks: America's Best Idea. Set against breathtaking backdrops, the film is the story of an idea as uniquely American as the Declaration of Independence and just as radical -- that the most special places in the nation should be preserved, not for royalty or the rich, but for everyone. Burns and series writer/co-producer Duncan discuss highlights from the 12-hour series. Included are scenes from Denali National Park that feature photographs by Brad Washburn, renowned explorer and founding director of the Museum, as well as interviews with Brad and Barbara Washburn.

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