Watch Death of a Nation

Death of a Nation is a documentary film released in 2018, written and directed by the conservative political commentator Dinesh D'Souza. The film examines the similarities and differences between the presidencies of Abraham Lincoln and Donald Trump, and how Democrats are the real racists. The film argues that Democrats were the party of slavery and racism when they lost the Civil War, and that their modern-day tactics bear striking similarities to those of the Southern Democrats during the Jim Crow era.

The movie follows the course of history, analyzing the Civil War Period and events that led to the downfall of the Confederacy. It further links how the political ideologies of slavery and racism have persisted into modern American Democratic politics. Dinesh D'Souza explores this theme by arguing that the historical figure of Abraham Lincoln was a Republican and one of America's greatest presidents, whereas Woodrow Wilson was a Democrat who implemented eugenics programs and you-name-it practices that led to racial segregation and the other evils of Jim Crow. Through a series of interviews, archival footage, and analysis, D'Souza presents a polemic in favor of the Republican party and Donald Trump through a rousing homage to the figure of Lincoln.

The movie uses interviews to build up the case against the Democrats. Guests interviewed include White House insiders such as Mike Pence, Sebastian Gorka, and Newt Gingrich. The film also features interviews with famous conservatives and opponents of the left-wing, including David Horowitz, Jonah Goldberg, and Richard Spencer. Several historians, such as Allen Guelzo, also contribute insights into the works of Lincoln, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the racist policies of Southern Democrats.

The film is very much a political commentary that seeks to advocate for Trump and his political party. Thus, familiar Trumpian policies such as the "Make America Great Again" catchphrase and gun rights are recurrent themes. However, more distinctly, D'Souza awakens the Republican party's base by drawing on populist language and framing that is reminiscent of the conservative white nationalism that has become the backbone of Trump's platform. 'Death of a Nation' takes a dig at the left-wing Democrats, Social Democrats, and far-left, liberals who are seen as evil, unpatriotic, and prone to adopting "Saul Alinsky-style dirty tactics."

Furthermore, the movie presents an alternative account of American history, one that draws a sharp line from Lincoln to Trump's presidency by cementing the Republican Party as America's traditional party, resulting in the Democratic Party being the “real” racists. The content of the film, as its name suggests, is intentionally divisive; its aim being to create controversy and stir up the populist base of the Republican party through fiery rhetoric and images.

However, it must be clear that, aside from its political slant, 'Death of a Nation' serves to inspire and galvanize those who believe in the American narrative and the American dream. It provides an answer to the questions, “How did we get here?” and “Where are we headed?” by highlighting recent socio-political and economic changes that culminated in the Trump Era.

In the end, Death of a Nation is a documentary-style movie that presents a specific view of American history and politics through the eyes of a conservative Republican. While it may well stimulate conservative supporters of President Trump and Republican candidates, it may well prove divisive for many others, particularly those with different political beliefs. Overall, with its polished production values and anecdotal storytelling, this motion picture is a great investment of time and money for those who want to learn more concerning American political history and the origins of political division in America.