Breath of Freedom

Breath Of Freedom is a thought-provoking and evocative series from the Smithsonian Channel that was first broadcast in 2014. This compelling two-part documentary series unveils an often-overlooked part of modern U.S. history: the pivotal roles played by African American soldiers in shaping and propelling the civil rights movement.

Set against the backdrop of the Second World War, Breath Of Freedom presents a deep and thorough investigation into the experience, personal struggles, and victories of African American troops. These brave men faced and overcame not just the cruelties of war, but also the institutionalized racism that was prevalent in the U.S. military, both on the domestic front and abroad.

The series paints a vivid picture of the stark contradictions the African American soldiers had to grapple with. On one hand, they were expected to risk their lives fighting for their country's freedom in the global theatre of WWII. On the other hand, they were confronted with bitter prejudice and discrimination within their own ranks.

But it didn't end there. As they found themselves in countries that were far from the segregation policies of the United States, many of these soldiers started to encounter a different reality. They experienced a level of broad-based respect and acceptance, in contrast with their homeland's social situation. Being in a place where the color of their skin did not determine their worth had a profound impact on these servicemen, and this realization became a pivotal inspiration for the quest for equal rights and freedom back in the United States.

Breath Of Freedom doesn't just rely on historical analysis and discussions. It tells its story through the power of personal narratives, validated by first-hand interviews with African American military veterans. They share strikingly candid accounts of their experiences during the war and after their return home. Each testimonial brings to life what it felt like to be an African American soldier during WWII, shedding light on what these individuals underwent and the monumental changes they helped initiate.

The series also features several notable guests, providing further depth to the storyline. Some of these guests are prominent figures in civil rights and politics, including former Secretary of State General Colin Powell and Congressman John Lewis. These renowned personalities provide their perspectives on the struggle for racial equality and underline the significance of the role that African American soldiers played in catalyzing the advent of the civil rights movement.

Another intriguing aspect of Breath Of Freedom is the exploration of the post-war period. The narrative delves into how the experiences of African American soldiers overseas sparked a challenging and heated debate on racial discrimination upon their return to the U.S. Their unwillingness to acquiesce to the racially divisive practices in their own country after experiencing a different social atmosphere abroad was seen as a major threat by those who wanted to maintain the status quo.

Through a skillful blend of interviews, archival footage and dramatic reenactments, the series effectively transports viewers to the complex era of the 1940s and 50s. The cinematography and direction are praiseworthy, enhancing the storytelling with historical authenticity and emotional resonance.

Breath Of Freedom is not just a military history documentary. It narrates an intersectional tale that binds together strands of war, civil rights, identity, freedom and heroism. Responsibilities of global conflict and personal judgments go hand in hand, adding a narrative layer not commonly seen in similar entries.

In conclusion, Breath Of Freedom is an extraordinary exploration of an understudied part of the American narrative. It moves beyond a simple retelling of historical events and instead, through a sound analysis of individual lives, pushes the viewers to reflect on broader themes of equality, justice, and the true cost of freedom. This Smithsonian Channel series is a homage to the courage and determination of those African American soldiers who, despite facing the dual threat of war and racism, paved the way towards a more inclusive and fair society. Whether you're a history enthusiast or someone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience, Breath Of Freedom is a must-watch.