Sweet Land of Liberty

Subtitled Memorable Moments in American History—The 20th Century, this program presents pivotal issues and events in short segments featuring archival footage and photos, audio clips, animation, and narration. In the section charting the course of civil rights in America (starting in the 1900s and ending in the 1960s), for example, the film effectively describes how the lasting impact of slavery and the Civil War created an environment that led to flashpoints—the KKK, Plessy v. Ferguson, Jim Crow laws, the murder of Emmett Till, and the bravery of Rosa Parks, among others—which eventually sparked the mid-century Civil Rights Movement. The excellent writing and strong visuals deliver a powerful punch, while the content covers more than just milestones and major personalities, providing a broader cultural context. For instance, the chapter on “The Great Depression & Recovery” mentions the expansion of radio in the 1930s, as well as more familiar elements such as FDR's New Deal; and the advent of TV, the 3D movie craze, and UFOs receive mention in the segment titled “Suburbia & Levittown.” Other topics covered here include “The Atomic Solution,” “The Space Race,” and “The Cold War.” Serving up a well-executed historical outline, this is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (C. Block)