The Negro Soldier (1944)

The Negro Soldier (1944)

„The Negro Soldier“ is a documentary film produced by Frank Capra during World War II in 1944. It was commissioned by the United States War Department and aimed to educate and inspire African American soldiers serving in the U.S. military. The documentary was directed by Stuart Heisler based on the script by Carlton Moss.

Here are some key points about the documentary:

1. Purpose: The primary purpose of „The Negro Soldier“ was to address racial prejudice and promote patriotism and unity among African American soldiers. It aimed to combat racial stereotypes and show the significant contributions of African Americans to the war effort.

2. Content: The film features historical reenactments, interviews, and footage showing the achievements and heroism of African American soldiers throughout American history, from the Revolutionary War to World War II. It highlights their struggles, sacrifices, and achievements despite facing discrimination and segregation.

3. Narration: The documentary is narrated by Academy Award-winning actor and activist Canada Lee. His powerful narration guides viewers through the history and experiences of African American soldiers, emphasizing their bravery and dedication to their country.

4. Impact: „The Negro Soldier“ was groundbreaking for its time, as it was one of the first films produced by the U.S. government to address racial issues directly. It received widespread acclaim for its message of equality and was instrumental in promoting the integration of the U.S. military.

5. Legacy: The documentary’s impact extended beyond its initial release. It served as a catalyst for discussions about race relations and civil rights in the United States. It also inspired future filmmakers and activists to use film as a tool for social change.

Overall, „The Negro Soldier“ stands as an important milestone in the representation of African Americans in film and in the fight against racial injustice during World War II and beyond.

Cast:

• Clyde Turner – Soloist in church
• Carlton Moss – Minister
• William Broadus – Jim
• Bertha Woolford – Mrs. Bronson
• Norman Ford – Lt. Robert E. Bronson
• Clarence Brooks – Chaplain
• Davis Roberts – Army Sergeant
• Joe Louis – Self
• Benjamin O. Davis Jr. – Self
• Jesse Owens – Self - 1936 Olympic Games (archive footage)
• Dean Dixon – Self - Conductor (archive footage)
• Vivien Theodore Thomas – Self - Doctor (archive footage)
• Hiroshi Tanaka – Self - High Jumper (archive footage)
• Gustav Weinkötz – Self - High Jumper (archive footage)
• James S. Watson – Self - Judge (archive footage)
• Lawrence Reddick – Self - Museum Curator (archive footage)
• Philip H.M. Savory – Self - Philanthropist (archive footage)
• Matthew Henson – Self - Polar Explorer (archive footage)
• Gertrude Elise Ayer – Self - Principal (archive footage)
• Richmond Barthé – Self - Sculptor (archive footage)
• Henry Johnson – Self - WW1 Soldier (archive footage)
• Erich Borchmeyer – Self (archive footage)
• W.C. Handy – Self (archive footage)
• Adolf Hitler – Self (archive footage)
• Cornelius Johnson – Self (archive footage)
• Ralph Metcalfe – Self (archive footage)
• Max Schmeling – Self (archive footage)
• Marian Anderson – Self (archive footage)
• George Washington Carver – Self (archive footage)

„The Negro Soldier“ ist ein Dokumentarfilm, der 1944 während des Zweiten Weltkriegs von Frank Capra produziert wurde. Er wurde vom US-Kriegsministerium in Auftrag gegeben und sollte afroamerikanische Soldaten, die im US-Militär dienten, aufklären und inspirieren. Regie bei dem Dokumentarfilm führte Stuart Heisler nach dem Script von Carlton Moss.

Insgesamt ist „The Negro Soldier„ ein wichtiger Meilenstein in der Darstellung von Afroamerikanern im Film und im Kampf gegen die Rassenungerechtigkeit während des Zweiten Weltkriegs und darüber hinaus.