The United States in the Twentieth Century Part 1 (1900-1933)
The United States in the Twentieth Century Part 1 (1900-1933) This is a remarkable and magnificent film history of the United States in the first third of the 20th century. E. G. Marshall’s excellent historical narration provides the linkage for a filmography account of this period. Especially during the early years, rare footage was found to portray the mood, as well as substance, of each period. From the first anti-smoking film clip (1903) to the emergence of the auto and the plane, each segment is cohesive and insightful.
In addition to themes on women, African Americans, and other minorities, highlights include the Spanish-American War, clips on the cinematic reaction to Pancho Villa (though earlier accolades from Americans are omitted), the development of the Panama Canal, and the emergence of motion pictures. Interspersed are marvelous comedy scenes and as well as insights into personalities as diverse as Teddy Roosevelt and Eugene V. Debs.
On World War I, America’s lack of preparedness is underscored, as well as the rapid development of the ‘arsenal of democracy.’ Rare footage covers WW I from production and training to fighting in the field, with distinct segments on the army, the navy, and the air force (Army Signal Corps). Though the production of planes, machine guns, tanks, and artillery is overstated, this still is a fine overall coverage of America in WW I. A segment on how African Americans and opponents to the war were treated, as well as performances for the troops by Hollywood stars, add a sense of reality to coverage of the Great War.
This documentary captures a kaleidoscopic series of impressions of The Twenties. The evolution of the auto and the airplane is juxtaposed with flappers and the emergence of the cinema and Broadway. The ‘liberation’ of women and the wildness of the Prohibition period provide ample entertainment. Coverage of presidents includes informal footage that, especially in the case of President Harding, differs from what is found in standard text books.
Volume 5: The Great Depression (1929-1933) is a superb portrayal of the consumer exuberance that preceded the crash. The vignettes of the hungry and the protestors are juxtaposed against the cinematic entertainment, the nightclubs, and the comedy that provided relief during this desperate period. The historical accuracy is notable in the case of General MacArthur’s role in the Anacostia attack against the Bonus Army and other controversial incidents.
I know of no other film account of this period that holds a candle to The United States in the Twentieth Century. Previously my only historical video vignette source for the first third of the twentieth century was the minimalist Twentieth Century: Turning Points in U. S. History.
Clips from this historical film feat would greatly enhance the teaching of this period both in high schools and in college American history survey courses.
