The Birth of a Nation Resources

The Civil War Trust offers educational resources about the American Civil War to the public, as well as preserving battlefields and other historical landmarks.

This PBS-run site discusses the struggles faced by black Americans in the aftermath of the Civil War and, in particular, the racist laws enacted in the South known as "Jim Crow laws."

The Birth of a Nation is actually based in part on this 1905 novel, which was adapted into a play prior to the release of the film.

For an outside perspective on America's cinematic tribute to racism, check out this insightful article courtesy of the BBC.

This New York Times piece focuses on the reaction to the release of the film, which is so fascinating that they could have a movie made about it.

For a crash course in the Reconstruction Era, check out this article from the New York Times.

For a more historically accurate account of the Reconstruction Era, check out this video from the History Channel.

This short video is an excerpt from Ken Burns' nine-part documentary series on the subject, which is a must-watch if you're interested in learning more.

This brief video examines D.W. Griffith's career as a filmmaker, which was fraught with controversy despite his innovative work.

This radio piece, written 100 years after the release of the film, examines the changing perception of it, based on historical circumstances.

Courtesy of NPR, here's a more realistic examination of the Reconstruction Era, which focuses on the way that black Americans were disenfranchised during the time.

This neat-o GIF shows the exact order that the South seceded from the US. Warning: it's a long one.

It's a tiny picture, but it's worth looking at just the same. This specific protest took place in New York City.