DVD Resources
Cressman Library's Media Services department offers several educational DVDs on various historical topics:
There are numerous films in the media collection that have at least some basis in historical events or historical people. The ones included below are considered to be (mainly) historically accurate, though they may still take some creative liberties. Films that take substantial liberties with the source events (such as Braveheart, or The King's Speech) have been omitted.
All Quiet on the Western Front by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 A416QPublication Date: 1930Though partly fictional, it accurately represents the horrors of WWI
All the President's Men by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 A416TPublication Date: 1976The story of Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein and the early investigation into the Watergate scandal. Takes small liberties with the presentation of events.
Downfall (Der Untergang) by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 D748AAPublication Date: 2004Chronicles the last days of Nazi Germany from the perspective of Hitler's secretary. Considered to be a fairly accurate portrayal.
Gandhi by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 G195AAPublication Date: 1982A retelling of the life of Gandhi; though it only focuses on the major events of his life, it presents them accurately.
Iron Jawed Angels by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 I71irPublication Date: 2004Takes some liberties with its depiction of the American suffragette movement, but largely considered accurate.
The Queen by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 Q3AAPublication Date: 2007Considered a very accurate depiction of the events following Princess Diana's death.
12 Years a Slave by Call Number: DVD 791.4372 T971yPublication Date: 2014Based on the true story of Solomon Northup, it is considered a brutally accurate depiction of slavery in America.
Web Resources
- PBS History Videos"Journey back in time to understand the events that shaped the society we live in today. Witness the rise and fall of magnificent empires and explore the lives of some of history’s most powerful and influential people through in-depth biographies."
PBS offers a wide selection of short and informative video clips on a wide range of historical topics, from the American Constitution to the Women's Movement. - Black History BiographiesBiography.com presents a series of biographical videos about the lives of famous figures in black history. Covers notable civil rights heroes, activists, artists, athletes, and political figures.
- Smithsonian ChannelThe Smithsonian Channel brings viewers documentaries and programs exploring and showcasing America's cultural, historical, and scientific heritage.
- The History ChannelThe History Channel provides a wealth of videos on a range of various historical topics, but focuses primarily on American history. Specific series of videos are offered on U.S. Presidents, First Ladies, Native American culture and history, and various American landmarks.