A controversial silent film released in 1915, its historical significance within the context of Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) stems from its impact on American society and its reflection of prevailing racial attitudes during the early 20th century. The motion picture, directed by D.W. Griffith, presented a highly biased and romanticized view of the Reconstruction Era and the Ku Klux Klan. It is critical for APUSH students to understand the film not as an accurate historical portrayal, but as a powerful piece of propaganda that influenced public opinion and contributed to the resurgence of white supremacist ideology.
The importance of studying this film in APUSH lies in its illustrative power regarding the complexities of historical interpretation and the manipulation of historical narratives. Analyzing the film allows students to understand how historical events can be selectively presented to support specific agendas. Further, it highlights the pervasive racism and segregation prevalent in American society at the time, and how these attitudes were reinforced through popular culture. Studying its reception also demonstrates the limitations of progressivism during the early 20th century, as many progressive reformers failed to address racial inequality adequately. The film’s commercial success and widespread popularity underscore the depth of racial prejudice within the nation.