The American Experience: Ida B. Wells--A Passion For Justice

This powerful documentary tells the courageous story of a woman that host David McCullough reminds us is rarely found in history textbooks. As a 19th century black woman, Ida B. Wells had two strikes against her being able to have a voice in society: her race and her sex. Drawing from a number of sources--archival pictures, newspaper stories, interviews with historians and descendants, and Wells' memoir (read eloquently by author Toni Morrison), this program traces the story of Wells' determination to keep her brothers and sisters together following the death of her parents; her early work as a schoolteacher; her refusal to change her seat on a train ride, which resulted not only in her bringing suit at the age of 22 against the railroad company, but also left an indelible mark on the conductor who's rough hand bore the imprint of Wells' teeth; her growing political and social activism which she pursued through journalism; and her landmark work on halting the heinous practice of lynching in the South. Called the "Princess of the Press," Wells wrote highly inflammatory articles protesting the lynching of blacks in Memphis, which resulted in threats on her life, and her eventual move to New York, where she would work for both the rights of blacks and those of women, together with such notables as Susan B. Anthony. A new postage stamp will commemorate Wells' long overdue recognition as one of the original founders of the NAACP, and a lifelong activist for human rights. An excellent program; highly recommended. (Available from: PBS Video, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria VA 22314-1698; 1-800-424-7963.)