I have just finished watching "The American Revolution", and have recorded all 6 episodes. I intend to re-watch some, if not all, of them again. The detail is amazing. Yes, like you SRS, I knew about Cornwallis at Yorktown, but had no idea of the nuances of history leading up to it.
   I knew the French 'helped' us win the revolution, but the fortunate timing of their back and forth voyages to the Caribbean and the decisions of Rochambeau about where to position his ships was fascinating.
All thru the series, it was interesting to see how most of the main characters, from George III to George Washington to Ben Franklin to Benedict Arnold...etc. had their good AND bad sides. This was the first time I ever realized how the allegiances and fortunes of so many indigenous Native American tribes affected the progress of events.
   And of course, the changing status of Loyalists vs. Patriots coupled with changing situations of Blacks re:free and enslaved was a crucial aspect of the entire history. Even the Boston Tea Party that we all thought we knew about had subtle details I never understood.
All through the series, various recurring mention of little known individuals like John Greenwood, the boy fifer and the Black man who became Washington's dentist filled out my sense of how society grew and functioned as the revolution progressed.
   I have watched Ken Burns' productions for years, but he and his team have outdone themselves this time. Just the details of how the Declaration and Constitution were created could make a stand-alone series.

   There are SO many themes and historical facts explored in this latest amazing production, that I could type for days, running back and forth to the TV to re-run various episodes to remind me of names and details.
   Any American who cares about the history and character of the country should find the time to watch the series.