American Experience Season 12 Episode 12 George Wallace: Settin' the Woods on Fire (Part 1)

In season 12 episode 12 of American Experience, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of George Wallace, a controversial political figure from Alabama. This is a two-part episode, with part one focusing on Wallace's rise to power and the events that led to his notorious reputation.

Viewers are introduced to Wallace's early life and how he saw the need to appeal to the segregationist mindset of Alabama voters in order to win elections. As he gained power, he used his platform to promote a pro-segregation agenda and became known for his fiery speeches. The episode explores the impact of Wallace's rhetoric on the civil rights movement and how his views stirred up tensions across the country.

Throughout the episode, archival footage and interviews with historians and individuals who knew Wallace are used to paint a picture of the man and his political ideology. The show doesn't shy away from difficult topics, including the violence that often accompanied clashes between nonviolent protestors and police in Wallace's Alabama.

As part one of the two-part episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a sense of the tangled web that Wallace wove during his time in office. The episode shows that while he was a skilled politician, his legacy is complicated by the damage he did to the civil rights movement and the pain he caused many individuals and families.

Overall, George Wallace: Settin' the Woods on Fire (Part 1) is a thought-provoking look at a controversial political figure who had a significant impact on the course of American history. It presents a balanced view of Wallace, showcasing both his strengths and his flaws, and sets the stage for the second part of the episode, which promises to be just as fascinating and illuminating.