The Birth of a Nation

Directed by D.W. Griffith, 'The Birth of a Nation' is a landmark yet deeply controversial silent film depicting the Civil War and Reconstruction era through a racist lens. The film was groundbreaking in its cinematic techniques, pioneering narrative filmmaking, camera work, and editing. However, its glorification of the Ku Klux Klan and racist portrayal of Black Americans sparked widespread protests and is widely condemned as one of cinema's most infamous works.

• It was the first feature film screened at the White House.
• Originally titled 'The Clansman' after Thomas Dixon Jr.'s novel.
• Running time of over three hours made it unprecedented.
• It helped revive the Ku Klux Klan after its release.
• Tickets cost an unprecedented two dollars upon its release.

• The former enemies of North and South are united again in common defense of their Aryan birthright.
• The bringing of the African to America planted the first seed of disunion.
• In the agony of defeat, the spirit of the Southland called to be reborn.
• War claims its bitter, useless sacrifice.
• The torch of this drama will burn in your memory always.