TELEVISION

Slavery and the Making of America

Series: Slavery and the Making of America
4.5
(111)
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Episodes
4
Rating
TVPG
Year
2004
Language
English
Publisher
PBS

About

A documentary of the history of American slavery from its beginnings in the British colonies through the years of post-Civil War Reconstruction, this series examines the integral role slavery played in shaping the new country and challenges the long held notion that it was exclusively a Southern enterprise. The remarkable stories of individual slaves offer fresh perspectives on the slave experience.

Related Subjects

Episodes

1 to 3 of 4

1. Part 1: The Downward Spiral

54m

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In the 1620s, there were no limitations imposed on slaves. But by the early 18th century, the expanding slave trade caused many colonies to adopt strict "black codes," transforming the social system into one of legal racial oppression.

2. Part 2: Liberty in the Air

54m

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From the 1740s to the 1830s, slavery continued to support economic development, but the Revolutionary War revealed the contradictions of a nation seeking independence while denying freedom to its black citizens.

3. Part 3: Seeds of Destruction

54m

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As the North adopted laws to abolish slavery, the South saw its greatest expansion of slavery. The abolitionist movement began to gather strength, contributing to the widening fissure and imminent break-up of the nation.

Extended Details

  • Closed CaptionsEnglish

Artists

Dante J. Jamesproducer
Morgan Freemanactor