Watch American Experience: 1964

At the height of the Civil Rights Movement in America, the year 1964 saw a string of pivotal events that forever changed the course of history. American Experience: 1964 is a documentary film that explores this transformative year through the lens of politics, social justice, and cultural upheaval. The film delves deep into the events that unfolded in 1964, starting with the Civil Rights Act that was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The Act, which prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, was a landmark moment in American history that marked the end of segregation and the beginning of a new era of equality.

But as the film shows us, the fight for civil rights was far from over. In Mississippi, three young civil rights workers—James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner—were murdered by members of the Ku Klux Klan. The film recounts the harrowing details of their deaths and the subsequent trial that brought the killers to justice.

The film also examines the ongoing struggle for voting rights for African Americans, culminating in the famous Selma to Montgomery march led by Martin Luther King Jr. The march, which began as a peaceful demonstration, turned violent when state troopers attacked the protesters with clubs and tear gas. The footage of this infamous event is powerful and emotional, as we witness the bravery of the marchers and the brutality of those who sought to silence them.

Beyond the realm of civil rights, the film also explores the political landscape of 1964. The presidential election pitted incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson against conservative Republican Barry Goldwater, who was known for his controversial views on civil rights and foreign policy. The film takes us through the campaign, highlighting the strategies and tactics employed by both candidates and analyzing the significance of Johnson's landslide victory.

In addition to politics and civil rights, the film also touches on the world of culture in 1964. The Beatles arrived in America for their first U.S. tour, sparking a phenomenon known as "Beatlemania" that swept the nation. The film includes archival footage of screaming fans and candid interviews with the band members themselves, offering a unique glimpse into this cultural phenomenon that would shape music and entertainment for years to come.

Overall, American Experience: 1964 is a fascinating and engaging documentary that provides a comprehensive look at a pivotal year in American history. From civil rights to politics to culture, the film covers a wide range of topics with intelligence and sensitivity, offering viewers a nuanced understanding of the events that shaped our country. Through powerful footage and insightful commentary, the film brings this transformative year to vivid life, reminding us of the struggles and triumphs that have made us who we are today.

American Experience: 1964 is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes.