About Before America
Before America is a five-part digital series reframing Revolutionary-era history through Native perspectives. Centered in the Great Lakes, it explores Indigenous resistance, memory, and sovereignty—where the fight for freedom truly began. Each episode uncovers hidden stories of women’s power, rebellion, and the land that still remembers. A WKAR original, produced as a companion to The American Revolution and part of the America 250 project.
New episode each Sunday Nov 16 through Dec 14, 2025.
Also available at www.youtube.com/@wkar beginning each Sunday evening
Latest Episodes
A 19th-century painting twisted Pontiac’s War—this episode uncovers the real story.
Michigan’s Indigenous history that helped spark the American Revolution.
The untold story of Indigenous women whose power shaped Pontiac’s War and Michigan’s history.
Hidden in Plain Sight: Michigan’s Indigenous Trail Trees
A 1763 lacrosse match at Fort Michilimackinac turns into a daring Native rebellion.
Extras
Reframing America’s origins through Native resistance in the Great Lakes.