1. The 1st Full-Length Film
Birth of a Nation
The 1st Full-Length Film

2. Film Project We are going to watch segments of this film
It is about Reconstruction, but it depicts this time period through the lens of Jim Crow
We can see Jim Crow-era attitudes toward African Americans through this film
For this project, it is our job to spot them.
Goal: Use this film to understand why prejudice and discrimination increased during the Progressive Era

3. Guiding Questions
Why did the NAACP challenge the showing of Birth of a Nation?
How did the NAACP justify its decision to resort to censorship?
How did the film influence racial attitudes and behavior in the United States?
What were the consequences of the NAACP's efforts to prohibit the showing of the film?

4. Background Information

5. Questions
What motivated Thomas Dixon and D.W. Griffith to engage in racist attacks on African Americans in the early years of the 20th century?
In what ways was Woodrow Wilson involved in the film Birth of a Nation? Why was his involvement significant?
Why did Griffith expect problems with the opening of the film? What steps did he take to counter the anticipated criticism?
Why did the NAACP decide to launch a campaign to censor this film?

6. Birth of a Nation Scenes
Cliff Hanger:
Legislature Scene:
KKK to the Rescue:
Black Union Troops: