15 Independence Day Movies for Kids That Teach History

Published:
June 24, 2025

Charis King

Contributor:
Charis King

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When fireworks light up the sky and the grill gets going, it is the perfect time to gather your crew for a family-friendly movie night. If you are looking for independence day movies for kids that combine entertainment with a spark of learning, we have you covered. Whether you are studying American history in your homeschool or just want to enjoy a feel-good Fourth of July film, these picks are packed with historical figures, fun trivia, and plenty of red, white, and blue.

independence day movies for kids with family sitting outside with popcorn

From George Washington to Abraham Lincoln, from the American Revolution to the American Girls professional baseball league, these movies invite curiosity and conversation. To help you track what you have watched, we are including a printable Movie Tracker with space for your kids to rate each film with hearts. Great for journaling, discussion, or just remembering which ones were favorites.

15 Patriotic Movies to Watch with Kids This July Fourth

For Younger Kids

1. An American Tail  (1986, G): This sweet animated movie follows Fievel, a young mouse who immigrates to America with his family in search of freedom. The story gently introduces kids to themes of hope, perseverance, and the immigrant experience in a way that is easy to understand. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Learn about Ellis Island and waves of immigration. Try a map activity tracking Fievel’s journey.

2. Liberty’s Kids  (2002, TV-Y7):This animated series brings the American Revolution to life through the eyes of young fictional characters who interact with real historical figures. It is packed with action, dialogue, and educational moments, making it perfect for curious elementary learners. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Create a timeline of revolutionary events or a quote match-up from historical figures.

3. Disney’s The American Presidents (2000, TV-G): Short and informative, this animated series offers fast facts and memorable visuals for each U.S. president. The bite-sized episodes are especially helpful for introducing younger kids to big historical ideas in manageable chunks. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Research one president a day for the week leading up to July Fourth.

4. Johnny Tremain  (1957, G): This historical drama based on Esther Forbes’ novel follows a young apprentice caught up in key events leading to the Revolutionary War. It is a wonderful introduction to colonial America, full of real events and a relatable coming-of-age story. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Read the book and compare it to the movie. Create a map of Boston or write a journal entry from Johnny’s perspective.

Great Family-Friendly Movies Everyone Can Enjoy

5. National Treasure  (2004, PG): A fast-paced adventure with puzzles, secret codes, and American landmarks, this movie pulls kids right into the world of Founding Fathers and historical documents. It is great for sparking curiosity about history without feeling like a lesson. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Let kids create their own treasure hunt with clues tied to American history facts.

6. Hidden Figures  (2016, PG): This inspiring true story highlights the brilliant work of three Black women at NASA during the space race. It teaches perseverance, teamwork, and STEM in a way that is both empowering and kid-accessible, especially for tweens and teens. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Stream Hidden Figures and then explore STEM careers. Try coding or launch a paper rocket experiment.

7. Captain America: The First Avenger  (2011, PG-13): Though it is a superhero movie, this one also explores themes like courage, sacrifice, and standing up for what is right. Set during WWII, it includes just enough historical flavor to get kids interested while still feeling fun and modern. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Compare comic book heroes across generations. What does it mean to be a hero in different eras?

8. The Music Man  (1962, G): catchy tunes and old-fashioned charm, this Broadway musical tells the story of a traveling salesman and a small town that learns to come together. Kids will enjoy the music and humor, while older ones may pick up on themes of trust and community. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Explore what life was like in 1912 by writing a “day in the life” journal entry from the perspective of a kid in a small American town.

Print & Go! FREE Marching Band Instrument Word Search

The Music Man Word Search

Download our marching band word search featuring twelve common band instruments like trumpet, flute, and bass drum. It can be a fun way to reinforce instrument names after watching the film.

9. Hamilton (2020, PG-13): This bold and brilliant musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda brings the story of Alexander Hamilton and the birth of our nation to life with rap, hip-hop, and powerful storytelling. While younger kids may need support with the lyrics, older kids and teens often find it unforgettable. It is currently only available to stream on Disney+

Springboard Learning Idea: Choose a song to analyze the lyrics. Create a Founding Fathers fact sheet or write your own history-themed rap.

For Older Kids’ Interest (10+)

10. Forrest Gump (1994, PG-13): Starring Tom Hanks, this film is like a walk through American history, touching on events from the 1950s to the 1980s. It tells the heartfelt story of Forrest and his childhood sweetheart Jenny, showing how one life can connect with so many historical changes. While it has some heavier moments, older kids gain a powerful sense of history and hope.

Springboard Learning Idea: Build a decade timeline based on events in the movie. Talk about what changes were most surprising.

11. 1776 (1972, PG): This classic musical drama brings the debates of the Founding Fathers to life as they struggle to declare independence. It offers a blend of history, politics, and catchy songs that make the story of the American Revolution engaging for older kids and teens. While the style is a bit theatrical, it’s a valuable way to dive deeper into the birth of the nation.

Springboard Learning Idea: Imagine a day in the life of a delegate at the Continental Congress. Write a journal entry or hold a mock debate on declaring independence.

12. Lincoln (2012, PG-13):A thoughtful historical drama that shows how one leader’s decisions shaped a nation during his time as President of the United States. The film is ideal for older students learning about the Civil War, the 13th Amendment, and the power of words. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Write your own speech inspired by the Gettysburg Address or create a fact sheet about Abraham Lincoln.

13. A League of Their Own (1992, PG): Set during WWII, this movie celebrates women in sports through the true story of the American Girls professional baseball league. Kids will enjoy the baseball scenes while exploring themes of resilience, teamwork, and opportunity. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Research women’s roles in the war effort. Try a family game of baseball and keep historical team names.

14. Independence Day (1996, PG-13):This thrilling sci-fi blockbuster stars Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum as heroes fighting an intense alien invasion. While it is not focused on historical events, the movie’s July Fourth backdrop celebrates unity and courage, making it a fun way to talk about coming together as a nation. 

Springboard Learning Idea: Use it as a creative writing prompt. What would your kids do if they had to save the country?

15. Top Gun (1986, PG)
This action-packed film starting Tom Cruise highlights courage, teamwork, and military aviation. While not a history lesson, it offers a look at American military culture and values like bravery and friendship. It’s a great pick to spark conversations about service and honor.

Springboard: Read about real naval aviators or watch a baseball game and connect it to American summer traditions.

Bonus Pick: The Patriot (2000, R)
If you have teens ready for a deeper, more intense look at the American Revolution, this gripping historical drama starring Mel Gibson could be a powerful addition. While not suitable for younger viewers due to its realistic battle scenes and heavier themes, it offers a dramatic and emotional look at the cost of freedom and the personal choices people made during the war.

Springboard: Compare the movie to actual Revolutionary War events. What was accurate? What was added for drama? Let your teen research and present their findings.

Lights, Camera, Learning! Printable Movie Tracker

movie response pack with stage and people in movie theater seats

Movie Response Template Pack

If you want to turn your family-friendly movie night into a thoughtful learning experience, grab our Movie Tracker Printable Pack from the store. It includes 8 pages of templates designed for homeschoolers and curious kids. Your child can record movie details like plot, setting, and characters, write a full review, and even compare the book and movie versions if both exist.

There is also space to draw a scene, rate the movie, and reflect on favorite parts or lessons learned. The printable makes it easy to turn a simple movie night into a creative writing or discussion activity. It is perfect for those summer days when you still want to sneak in some learning.

Want Even More Red, White and Blue Fun?

If you are looking for something to keep your kids learning and laughing this July Fourth, grab our Mega 4th of July Activities Pack:

4th of july Activity pack preview of pages with flags and smiling kids

Mega 4th of July Activities Pack

With 57 pages of games, puzzles, crafts, and printables, it is perfect for your homeschool or a fun holiday afternoon with family and friends. From patriotic coloring pages and trivia to bingo, word scrambles, and even a thank-you letter to a soldier, this pack has something for every age.

It is also a great way to wrap up your Independence Day movie night with meaningful, screen-free fun. Print and go or pick your favorites!

Springboard Learning Ideas

Movies are more than just entertainment-they can open doors to history, science, geography, writing, and more. If you want to build on your Independence Day movie night, here are a few homeschool-friendly learning ideas to extend the fun:

  1. Create a Historical Timeline: Use films like Liberty’s Kids, Lincoln, Hidden Figures, and Forrest Gump to place events in order and build a bigger picture of American history.
  2. Write a Movie Review or Character Letter: Use your printable tracker to write a review or choose a character to write to. What would you ask George Washington or Captain America?
  3. Compare the Book and Movie: Try a side-by-side comparison with Johnny Tremain or Hidden Figures. What stayed the same? What changed?
  4. Explore Real Geography: Track the movie settings on a map. Add Philadelphia, Boston, Washington D.C., and more. Let your kids build their own travel routes.
  5. Learn the Music: Sing along with the The Music Man or Hamilton. Choose one song to analyze or rewrite.
  6. Research the Real People: Pick someone like Abraham Lincoln, Mary Jackson, or Alexander Hamilton and make a mini biography poster.
  7. Make It Math or Science: Use Hidden Figures to explore real-world STEM. Measure rocket angles or complete a recycling rocket challenge using paper tubes and repurposed supplies.
  8. Play Patriotic Trivia: Turn movie night into trivia night. Include facts about history, characters, and quotes. Let kids make their own quiz questions.
  9. Draw or Act It Out: Use the drawing page in the tracker or act out a favorite scene. You could even write your own short movie script.
  10. Connect to Real Life: Movies like A League of Their Own or Top Gun can launch deeper discussions about sports, military service, and courage.

Final Thought

The Fourth of July is about more than fireworks. It is a time to reflect on where we have been and who we want to become. A good movie can spark imagination, open the door to American history, and bring the whole family together. Whether you are watching one or all of these independence day movies for kids, let it be a time of learning, laughter, and connection.

Light up your homeschool learning this summer with classic films, patriotic picks, and a big bowl of popcorn.

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