The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow

After the Emancipation Proclamation and closing of the Civil War, black Americans looked forward to a future of independent lives, educational opportunities for their children, and ownership of property. Instead, they were subjected to a nightmare of humiliation and violence that spanned generations, crossed centuries, and continues to haunt American culture today. Narrated by Richard Roundtree, this outstanding four-part series chronicles the origins of Jim Crow legislation and the continuing struggle to create a truly free society. "Promises Betrayed (1865-1896)" opens with the end of Reconstruction and the inauguration of new legislation designed to “keep the Negroes in their place,” and looks at the work of Ida B. Wells, who fought for anti-lynching laws, and the career of Booker T. Washington. "Fighting Back (1896-1917)" follows the rise of the black middle class, and the infusion of black art and music into mainstream society, while also examining the creation of the NAACP and the contributions of W.E.B. DuBois. "Don't Shout Too Soon (1917-1940)" looks at the years between the world wars, which witnessed increased racial violence in the streets, while "separate but equal" legislation was battled by Charles Hamilton Houston and others in the courts. The final episode, "Terror and Triumph (1940-1954)," examines black contributions to the World War II effort and the spread of Civil Rights activist groups that worked to reverse discriminatory Supreme Court decisions and promote African-American participation in the political system. Combining diary and letter excerpts with stark b&w images from photos, feature films, and newsreels (many with graphic violence), The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow, which masterfully details both the tragedy of this brutal period in American history and the stories of the courageous men and women determined to overcome the shadowy institution of Jim Crow, is an excellent series that serves as a top-notch prequel to both of the acclaimed Eyes on the Prize series (VL-4/90). Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)