Introduction
“12 Years a Slave” is a potent portrayal of the atrocities of slavery, which were a significant aspect of American history from the early era through the Civil War. The story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who, in the middle of the 1800s, was abducted and sold into servitude, is the inspiration for the film. The film links key ideas, events, issues, and changes throughout history in America, especially those involving enslavement and its repercussions.
Historical Context of Slavery in America
Since the first African slaves arrived in the British colonies in 1619, slavery has played a major role in American history. Slavery had been an integral part of the American social, economic, and governmental system by the middle of the 1800s. The brutality and inhumanity of slavery are depicted in the movie. The instances include the physical and mental abuse that slaves endured, the rejection of fundamental human rights, and the institutionalized racism that supported and sustained the system of slavery,
The Civil War, which was fought mainly over the subject of slavery, was one of the most significant occurrences in American history connected to slavery. The film explores the convoluted legal and political framework that upheld slavery and made it challenging for slaves to escape. The movie also depicts the abolitionist movement’s tireless efforts to abolish slavery and advance racial equity, as well as the resistance of slaves and their allies.
Personal Reflections
The movie has several parallels to my personal experience living in America. First of all, it makes me think about the persistent legacy of racism and slavery in the United States. Slavery was officially abolished in 1863 with the Emancipation Proclamation and in 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, but its effects can still be seen in contemporary American culture. The movie is a potent reminder that the struggle for racial justice and equality is still going on and that people need to keep pushing for a more just and equitable society.
The movie resonates with my own experience of being a person of color in America. I have not personally encountered the atrocities of slavery, but I have come across racism and discrimination in many different forms. The movie inspires me to carry on the struggle for racial justice in my own life by reminding me of the hardships and sacrifices made by those who came before me.
Lessons from the Movie for Everyday Life
The movie “12 Years a Slave” contains insightful lessons that can be used in everyday life. It teaches us the value of confronting and recognizing America’s history of slavery. Recognizing the enduring racial injustices in contemporary society requires an understanding of this past. Black Americans’ lives are still impacted by the legacy of slavery, as the film shows, and recognizing this past is the first step toward achieving a more equitable future. Moreover, the movie emphasizes how crucial resilience and tenacity are in the face of difficulty.
Purpose of Watching the Film
I chose to watch the film 12 Years a Slave for educational purposes: to learn more about American history and the legacy of slavery. This is one way for me to honor and remember the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for racial justice and equality. In addition, it is a way for me to confront and process my feelings about race and racism.
Not everyone will have the same experience watching the film, as individual experiences and perspectives are shaped by their unique backgrounds, histories, and identities. However, the film can serve as a powerful tool for promoting understanding, empathy, and dialogue across different communities and experiences.
Conclusion
“12 Years a Slave” is a potent portrayal of the horrors of enslavement and its impact on American history. The movie makes connections to significant concepts, occurrences, problems, and historical shifts linked to slavery and its aftereffects in America. The movie can be a potent tool for fostering communication and understanding across diverse groups and experiences, even though not everyone will have the same experience viewing it.
Reference
12 Years a Slave. Directed by Steve McQueen. 2013. New York. Fox Searchlight Pictures, 2013. DVD.