Watch From Swastika to Jim Crow

From Swastika to Jim Crow is a documentary that explores the little-known story of Jewish professors who escaped Nazi persecution and found refuge in historically black colleges and universities in the United States during World War II. The film documents how these professors, who were educated in the most elite institutions in Germany, were welcomed by their African American colleagues and students, who shared a similar experience of discrimination and exclusion.

The film provides an insightful view of the lives of these professors, many of whom arrived in the US without knowing English or the customs of their new home. They were pioneers in a sense, as they were among the first group of Jewish academics to work in historically black universities, paving the way for future generations of intellectuals to follow in their footsteps. The film delves into the personal relationships that developed between these professors and their African American colleagues, showcasing how they overcame cultural differences and bonded over their love of scholarship and a shared sense of duty to educate.

The documentary is narrated by Lucy Sante and features interviews with surviving professors, including John Hope Franklin, one of the most accomplished historians of African American history. Franklin, who passed away in 2009, provides insight into the different dynamics at play between the Jewish and African American professors during the pre-Civil Rights era. He also discusses the friendships he formed with some of these professors, which would last until the end of their lives.

The film includes archival footage and photographs that provide a visual representation of the social and political context of the time. These images illustrate the cultural differences between Nazi Germany and Jim Crow America, highlighting the social and political upheavals taking place in each place. The juxtaposition between the two is both fascinating and poignant, as it underscores the commonalities shared by the Jewish and African American professors, despite their vastly different backgrounds.

From Swastika to Jim Crow is a thought-provoking documentary that explores a little-known aspect of World War II history. It provides a nuanced portrayal of the unique circumstances that brought these two groups of marginalized intellectuals together and showcases the bonds they formed through their shared experiences. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of Jewish and African American history, as well as those interested in the role of education in overcoming systemic oppression. It is a moving testament to the power of respect, friendship, and intellectual curiosity to transcend cultural boundaries and bring people together.