This document gives a detailed overview into the historical context of The Help looking at the American Civil War, Racism in the South and the Civil Rights Movement. Ground you into the context of the time whilst also providing information that can be included in your essays as a part of AO3
The Help – context
Gone with the Wind –
Made in 1939, based on Margaret Mitchell’s novel it follows the
story about Southern America during the civil war and
reconstruction period following a women’s time during said
period and her romances/affairs.
Why did black people object?
Romanticising and whitewashing black slavery through
portraying them as docile and content with their way of life.
American Civil War –
1861 - 1865
Tension and conflict began due to the
rising conversation about slavery and
black people’s rights – the north
generally wanted to abolish slavery whereas the south was
against this as their economy was dependant on cotton
(produced with slave labour). When Abraham Lincoln was
elected, the confederacy (south) wanted to secede as he
threatened to abolish slavery. At the start of the war, the South
was at an advantage due to their confidence and superior
organisation and leadership which the North had
underestimated, as well at their militaristic style of life. However, in the end the North won
as they had massive production and manpower over the South.
General E. Lee = the leader of the confederate’s army known for his aggressive strategies
that led to high causalities
Abraham Lincoln’s role = originally, he was anti-slavery
but didn’t call for an emancipation as well as believing
black people shouldn’t have the same rights as white
people. But in 1863, he gave the emancipation
proclamation which freed all slaves in America. However,
in 1865 he was assassinated by being shot in the head
whilst watching theatre due to position in the war.
Period of Reconstruction –
1865 – 1877
While over 4 million slaves were freed after the war giving them the freedom they deserved,
in the southern states they introduced the “black codes” laws designed to inhibit the
freedom of black people and formed the idea of racial segregation. Leading to the formation
of the Jim Crow Laws.
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