Introduction
Tennessee’s history is a rich tapestry characterized by achievements and hardships. Chapter 9 of “Tennessee Blue Book: Student Edition, A History of Tennessee” and Episode 3 of “Eyes on the Prize” are excellent resources for learning about the state’s history. The displays of violence and hatred directed at these young people represent the worst of Tennessee’s history, demonstrating how deeply rooted racism was in certain areas. This paper will discuss how this film depicts the best and worst of Tennessee’s history, using two instances from each source.
Women’s Suffrage
One example from Tennessee’s history may be found in Chapter 9 of the “Tennessee Blue Book.” It emphasizes the state’s crucial involvement in women’s suffrage. The chapter describes how Tennessee became the deciding vote in ratifying the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women the right to vote across America (“Chapter 9: Modern Tennessee” 87). This historic event indicates Tennessee’s dedication to equality and its ability to lead and effect change on a national scale.
Civil Rights Movement
Similarly, Episode 3 of “Eyes on the Prize” showcases Tennessee at its best by depicting Nashville during the Civil Rights Movement. The episode features brave people like Diane Nash and John Lewis, who staged sit-ins and nonviolent protests to challenge racial discrimination (“Eyes on the Prize Episode 3”). Their efforts resulted in notable successes, such as the desegregation of downtown Nashville lunch counters. This episode shows how Tennesseans fought injustice and made it part of their history. In addition, it shows another distressing aspect: opposition to desegregation in Memphis schools throughout the late 1960s. The film portrays the antagonism that African-American pupils received as they sought to integrate all-white institutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chapter 9 of the “Tennessee Blue Book” and Episode 3 of “Eyes on the Prize” thoroughly depict Tennessee’s history, including achievements and low points. While Tennessee played an essential part in women’s suffrage and witnessed daring gestures during the Civil Rights Movement, it also saw racial bloodshed during Reconstruction and opposition to integration. It is critical to acknowledge both parts to properly appreciate the complexity of Tennessee’s past and strive for a better future.
Works Cited
“Chapter 9: Modern Tennessee.” Tennessee Blue Book , Tennessee State Library and Archives , 2019.
“Eyes on the Prize Episode 3.” Mr. Mac’s Online Classroom, 2014.