I often borrowed this video to use in my U.S. History courses at nearby colleges, and finally decided I should own it. I have some quibbles with its presentation, both in terms of production and scripting, but it never fails to ignite some discussion in class. <br />Brown's personal history is presented at length, reaching all the way back to his childhood on the Jacksonian frontier. With all the time taken telling stories about his failed businesses, experiences with escaped slaves, and his psychological angst, one would have expected a bit more about Jacksonian America but again, I quibble. One of the strengths is adjacent to this flaw it allows a glimpse into the isolation and poverty that formed his world view. <br />The middle section is filled with what amounts to personal anecdotes, which may cause a lapse of attention for many students and those less familiar with the figures and events. As a matter of pacing, this section seems to plod. Not a problem for me, mind you, but younger people lose focus-- sadly. The actual strife in Kansas and Harpers Ferry are quite well presented. The conclusions are aptly enough focused on assessing Brown as a leader, his importance in the abolitionist movement, the runup to the Civil War, and finally a discussion of his mental state. All worth thinking about. <br />As cinema, this has rough edges, I think. As pure history it has some holes. But overall I think this is very useful as a window into a time that many find difficult to understand.

Reader Reviews

Price: $22.49 Updated on 5-25-2009.