9 Startling Documentaries on the True History of the Civil War You Need to Watch
The American Civil War remains one of the most studied and debated conflicts in United States history, with its echoes resonating through the nation even today. This period from 1861 to 1865 saw the country deeply divided along social, economic, and political lines, resulting in over 620,000 deaths and a legacy of profound transformation.
This article explores nine startling documentaries that uncover the true history of the Civil War, revealing insights and perspectives often overlooked in textbooks. These documentaries provide a comprehensive understanding of the war's causes, key battles, and enduring impacts on American society.
1) Ken Burns' The Civil War (1990)
Ken Burns' The Civil War is a groundbreaking documentary series that aired in 1990. This nine-episode series delves into the American Civil War, covering the period from 1861 to 1865.
The series utilizes contemporary cinematography alongside thousands of archival photographs, paintings, and newspaper images to bring history to life. Well-known actors and actresses lend their voices to the production, reading contemporary quotes from historical figures, including Abraham Lincoln.
The Civil War by Ken Burns captures the poignant moments such as Lincoln's funeral, the final days of the war, and the capture of John Wilkes Booth. Celebrated generals, ordinary soldiers, and the struggle for a united nation are the focal points of this documentary.
For further information, visit the IMDB page.
2) The Civil War: A Film by Ken Burns (1990)
Ken Burns' documentary The Civil War is a nine-episode series that offers an in-depth exploration of the American Civil War. This series first aired in September 1990.
The series features extensive archival footage and photographs, bringing to life the most pivotal conflict in American history. Each episode covers significant battles, political events, and social issues of the time.
Burns' storytelling includes interviews, period music, and readings of historical documents. The use of narratives voiced by prominent actors adds a compelling layer to the presentation.
This documentary addresses major themes, such as slavery, states' rights, and the human cost of the war. Over 600,000 men died, marking it a deeply transformative period for the United States.
For those interested in a thorough and engaging examination of the Civil War, Ken Burns' series remains a significant educational resource.
For more information, visit IMDb.
3) The Untold Civil War
Civil War: The Untold Story (2014) offers a fresh perspective on the American Civil War. This five-part series focuses on the often-overlooked Western Theater, which stretches from the Appalachians to the Mississippi River.
Produced by Great Divide Pictures, the documentary highlights key battles and strategic movements that were pivotal to the war's outcome.
It also examines the political and social dynamics between the Union and the Confederacy.
The series dives into the impact on the home front, shedding light on how ordinary citizens were affected by the conflict.
Chris Wheeler, both the producer and director, has a history of crafting award-winning historical documentaries.
This series aired on PBS and brought an essential narrative to light that is frequently overshadowed by more well-known Eastern Campaign battles.
More information on Civil War: The Untold Story.
4) Sherman's March
Sherman's March refers to the military campaign led by Union General William Tecumseh Sherman during the American Civil War. It commenced in late 1864, beginning from Atlanta, Georgia, and ending in Savannah, Georgia. Sherman’s forces advanced through the South, employing a scorched-earth policy designed to cripple the Confederacy's ability to continue fighting.
One significant portrayal of this campaign is the documentary "Sherman's March: A Meditation on the Possibility of Romantic Love In the South During an Era of Nuclear Weapons Proliferation" (1986). Directed by Ross McElwee, this cinéma vérité film offers a unique perspective on the historic event, blending personal narrative with historic exploration. The documentary won a Grand Jury Prize and remains a notable work for its innovative approach.
Ken Burns’ acclaimed series "The Civil War" (1990) also devotes substantial attention to Sherman’s March. This comprehensive documentary features detailed accounts, maps, and illustrations to enhance the understanding of this crucial event. Narrated with precision, the series contextualizes the broader impact of Sherman’s actions within the Civil War's history.
For those interested in an in-depth analysis, PBS’s coverage of "The Civil War | Sherman’s March" provides insightful commentary and visual representations. The portrayal captures the immense scale and strategic significance of the campaign.
More information on Sherman's March can be found here.
For details on the 1986 documentary by Ross McElwee, visit this link.
5) Rebel: Loreta Velazquez, Secret Soldier of the American Civil War (2013)
Loreta Janeta Velazquez, a Cuban-born teenager, disguised herself as Harry T. Buford to fight in the American Civil War.
She participated in battles such as First Bull Run and Shiloh.
Velazquez also worked as a Confederate spy and later switched allegiance, spying for the Union by 1863.
Her story challenges contemporary norms about gender and race.
Velazquez’s 1876 memoir, A Woman in Battle, added additional intrigue to her life.
This documentary offers a detailed look at her dual life and the societies she navigated.
The film is available in various versions, including a one-hour broadcast on PBS and a 75-minute director's cut.
More information about the film
6) The War That Made America
"The War That Made America" provides a deep look into the French and Indian War, a conflict often overshadowed by the American Civil War. This war played a crucial role in shaping the early history of the United States.
Through detailed accounts, viewers can learn how the French and Indian War set the stage for future conflicts. The struggle between British and French colonial forces, with Native American alliances, significantly influenced the political landscape of North America.
This documentary emphasizes the war's role in paving the way for the American Revolution. By highlighting key battles and diplomatic maneuvers, it offers a comprehensive understanding of how early American identity was formed.
For more information, visit IMDB (2006).
7) African American Lives: The Civil War and Reconstruction
This documentary explores the profound and often overlooked impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction on African American lives.
Hosted by prominent scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr., the film delves into the stories of African Americans who played crucial roles during this transformative period.
The documentary highlights the struggles African Americans faced when fighting for freedom and equality.
It also examines their contributions to the war effort, including their service in Union armies and their push for education and political rights during Reconstruction.
Significant figures like Frederick Douglass and the first Black members of Congress are featured, shedding light on their enduring legacies.
Gates uses personal narratives and historical documents to bring these stories to life, providing a multifaceted view of African American experience during the Civil War and Reconstruction.
African American Lives: The Civil War and Reconstruction (2006) on IMDB
8) The Abolitionists
The Abolitionists (2013) is a documentary series by PBS that explores the lives and efforts of key figures in the American abolitionist movement.
It provides deep insights into individuals like William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Beecher Stowe, John Brown, and Angelina Grimké.
This three-part series sheds light on their relentless battle to end slavery and the immense challenges they faced.
Each episode delves into the personal struggles and sacrifices these abolitionists made.
Through historical reenactments and expert commentary, the documentary offers a vivid portrayal of the period leading up to the Civil War.
It emphasizes how their actions and ideas contributed to the eventual abolition of slavery in the United States.
The series also illustrates their contributions to the broader fight for human rights, highlighting their lasting impact on American society.
More information on The Abolitionists
9) Gettysburg
"Gettysburg" (2011) is a compelling documentary produced by Tony and Ridley Scott. It delves into the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War.
Through detailed reenactments and expert commentary, the documentary brings to life the intense conflict that took place over three days in July 1863.
The film explores key moments of the battle, including Pickett's Charge and the defense of Little Round Top. It highlights the enormous sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides.
The use of personal letters and diaries gives viewers an intimate glimpse into the lives and thoughts of those who fought.
"Gettysburg" not only depicts military strategies but also reflects on the broader impact of the battle on the outcome of the Civil War. The documentary's rich visuals and meticulous attention to historical detail make it a must-watch for history enthusiasts.
Historical Context
The American Civil War, from 1861 to 1865, was a defining period in U.S. history, marked by intense battles and significant social changes. This section will explore the root causes of the war and the pivotal battles that shaped its outcome.
The Causes of the Civil War
Tensions between the Northern and Southern states had been simmering for decades before the Civil War erupted. Key factors included slavery, states' rights, and economic differences. The Northern states opposed the expansion of slavery into new territories, leading to a clash with the Southern states that depended on slave labor for their agricultural economy.
These conflicting positions reached a boiling point with the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860. His anti-slavery stance was seen as a threat by the Southern states, prompting them to secede from the Union and form the Confederate States of America. This secession sparked a conflict that would last four years and cost hundreds of thousands of lives.
Key Battles and Strategies
The Civil War witnessed numerous battles that were crucial in determining its course. Some of the most notable include the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Antietam. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought in 1863, is often regarded as the turning point of the war, marking the last major Confederate invasion of the North.
Military strategies played a significant role as well. The Union implemented a blockade known as the Anaconda Plan to suffocate the South's economy. Meanwhile, General Robert E. Lee led the Confederate Army with tactics aimed at outmaneuvering Union forces. Each side's strategies and key battle outcomes shaped the war's progress, ultimately leading to the Union's victory and the abolition of slavery.
Influential Figures
The Civil War was shaped by numerous key players whose decisions and actions defined the course and outcome of the conflict. Understanding these figures provides a comprehensive view of the era’s complexities.
Military Leaders
Ulysses S. Grant emerged as a crucial Union general. His aggressive tactics and leadership at battles like Vicksburg and Gettysburg paved the way for Union victories. Grant's relentless pursuit ultimately led to Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House.
Robert E. Lee was a formidable Confederate general. Renowned for his tactics and battlefield strategies, Lee's leadership during the Seven Days Battles and the Battle of Chancellorsville showcased his military prowess. Despite his skill, resources limitations hampered the Confederate cause.
Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, another notable Confederate leader, earned his nickname for his steadfastness at the First Battle of Bull Run. His disciplined troops were instrumental in several early Confederate victories, though his unexpected death in 1863 was a significant blow to the Southern war effort.
William Tecumseh Sherman, Union General, is best known for his "March to the Sea." His use of total war tactics devastated the South's economy and infrastructure, hastening the war's end. Sherman's strategic insight exemplifies his belief in the total destruction of enemy resources.
Political Figures
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was the most pivotal political figure of the Civil War. His dedication to preserving the Union and his skillful use of executive powers helped steer the nation through its darkest times. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued in 1863, was a turning point, redefining the war’s purpose.
Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States, struggled with limited resources and internal political strife. His administration faced constant challenges in unifying the Confederate states and maintaining the war effort against the more industrialized and populous North.
Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist leader, played a key role in advocating for the enlistment of African American soldiers in the Union Army. His powerful oratory and writings highlighted the moral imperatives of the Union cause and influenced public opinion and policy.
Andrew Johnson became President after Lincoln’s assassination in 1865. His approach to Reconstruction, which was lenient toward the defeated Southern states, led to significant political conflicts and set the stage for his impeachment. Johnson’s tenure was marked by his struggles to balance national unity with civil rights advancements.
Societal Impact
The American Civil War drastically altered civilian life and led to the transformative Reconstruction Era, reshaping the nation's social and economic structures.
Effects on Civilian Life
The war drastically disrupted the daily lives of civilians. Many families faced shortages of basic necessities such as food and clothing due to blockades and ravaged infrastructure. Cities and towns, especially in the South, suffered from destruction caused by battles.
Civilians, especially women, took on new roles traditionally held by men, who were away fighting. Women managed farms, businesses, and worked as nurses, filling critical roles that sustained the war effort. Additionally, the war brought about significant population displacement. Many people were forced to flee their homes, creating large numbers of refugees.
The psychological toll on civilians was immense. The constant threat of nearby battles, the loss of loved ones, and the overall uncertainty created a climate of fear and anxiety.
Reconstruction Era
Post-war, the Reconstruction Era aimed to address and integrate the freed African American population into society. New laws, like the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the 14th Amendment, sought to provide African Americans with legal equality.
This period saw the establishment of public schools and other institutions focused on integrating freed slaves. Despite these advancements, there were significant obstacles. The rise of groups like the Ku Klux Klan and the implementation of Black Codes sought to undermine the newly gained freedoms of African Americans.
Economic systems also transformed, with sharecropping becoming prevalent in the South as a compromise between freed slaves' desire for land ownership and the economic interests of former plantation owners.
