The Civil War in the Film Glory

The Civil War, a period of four years in the United States filled with bloody combat, thousands of casualties, and the destruction of much of Southern infrastructure. Although the Civil War had various causes (economy, politics, etc.), it mainly originated from the pressing issue of slavery at the time, mainly its expansion into the Western territories. As we all know, slavery was one of the most horrific times in our nation’s history, yet it was a typical and normal thing for the people of the 19th century. The film, Glory (1989), directed by Edward Zwick, doesn’t necessarily depict the horrors of slavery, however it does show 19th century America’s attitude toward African Americans, as well as the average African American’s hunger for freedom. The film begins with its protagonist, Colonel Shaw, being found by gravedigger John Rawlins (who later becomes a soldier in the Civil War). He is sent to a field hospital, and after he’s clear to leave, he visits his family at their plantation, where he meets Frederick Douglass, and is offered the position of Colonel for the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. He accepts the promotion, and invites his old friend, Major Forbes, to be his right hand man in leading the infantry. He accepts as well, and soon after, black soldiers quickly volunteer, of these including Rawlins, Searles, Trip, etc., which will become important factors in the plot of the movie. Throughout the film, it is clear how each character is very different from each other, for example, Private Trip, is very stubborn and rude, while Private Searles is much more calm, peaceful, and weakish. Yet as the plot progresses, the characters slowly and gradually mold into different personalities, some going through more changes than others. ...

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...eded shoes desperately, Shaw made a huge scene to the man in charge of soldier’s supplies and was able to get what he wanted for his men.Because Shaw had this connection with his soldiers, he became a very strong leader, and his men began to respect Shaw. Just like Searles, a big moment for Shaw was in the final battle, where he demonstrated how he changed in terms of leadership. He fought with great bravery and courage, and died a hero.
The changes of all of these characters was highly important in terms of the plot of the movie. The film shows how all these completely different people changed so they could come together and fight for a cause that they all believed in, and it shows how they underwent that change. This shows us how it is possible for people to come together, no matter how different they are, and fight as one for a cause they all truly believe in.