Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise

Watch Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise

  • TV-PG
  • 2016
  • 1 Season
  • 7.4  (110)

Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise is a four-part documentary series that explores the African American experience since the civil rights movement. Produced by Henry Louis Gates Jr. and hosted by him and Oprah Winfrey, this show examines various aspects of black life in America, from politics and culture to sports and entertainment. Nas provides the musical score, which features original music production and songs inspired by the series.

The first episode, titled "Out of the Shadows," covers the period from 1965 to 1980. It looks at how black people were able to assert their rights and make gains in society in the years following the civil rights movement. The episode features interviews with civil rights leaders like John Lewis, who describe the struggle to pass legislation that would transform the lives of African Americans. It also explores the impact of black culture on the mainstream, highlighting artists like James Brown, Muhammad Ali, and Marvin Gaye.

The second episode, "Keep Your Head Up," covers the period from 1980 to 2000. This episode examines how black Americans navigated the challenges of the Reagan era and the war on drugs. It also explores the emergence of hip-hop music as a cultural force and the impact it had on black identity. The episode features interviews with rappers like LL Cool J and Chuck D, as well as pundits like Cornel West and Michael Eric Dyson.

The third episode, "A More Perfect Union," covers the period from 2000 to 2016. This episode looks at how black Americans responded to the election of Barack Obama and the challenges he faced during his presidency. It also explores the Black Lives Matter movement and how it has brought issues of police violence and racism to the forefront of national conversation. The episode features interviews with activists like DeRay Mckesson and Alicia Garza, as well as journalists like Ta-Nehisi Coates.

The final episode, "The Powerbroker," tells the story of Whitney M. Young Jr., a lesser-known civil rights leader who worked behind the scenes to bring about change. The episode explores Young's legacy and the impact he had on the civil rights movement. It also looks at how black Americans continue to fight for justice and equality in the present day.

Overall, Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise is a powerful and thought-provoking look at the struggles and triumphs of black Americans over the past five decades. With its insightful commentary, stirring music, and moving interviews, this show offers a nuanced and multifaceted view of a complex topic. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the black experience in America, this series is a must-watch.

Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between November 15, 2016 and on

Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise
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Seasons
Touch the Sky
4. Touch the Sky
November 22, 2016
The final hour brings the story up to the present day. Gates celebrates how far African Americans have come toward equality and raises hard questions about the obstacles that remain.
Keep Your Head Up
3. Keep Your Head Up
November 22, 2016
The third hour reveals profound fissures within the country€and within black America€that deepened through the 1980s and €˜90s, just as African Americans were becoming more visible than ever.
Part 2
2. Part 2
April 19, 2016
The second hour dramatizes the diverging paths for African Americans and outbursts of white backlash that emerged in the 1970s and early ‘80s. Gates explores how African Americans found new sources of hope from the creation of hip-hop.
Part 1
1. Part 1
November 15, 2016
Interviews and archival footage tell the story of the struggle for black equality; with insight from Jesse Jackson, Nas and Donna Brazile.
Description
Where to Watch Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise
Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise is available for streaming on the website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Black America Since MLK: And Still I Rise on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon, Google Play, Hoopla and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    November 15, 2016
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (110)