Amistad

Amistad

Year: 1997

Runtime: 155 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

DramaHistoryMystery

In this powerful drama based on a true story, a group of African slaves being transported on the ship La Amistad mutiny and seize control. Their journey brings them to America, where their fight for freedom sparks a national debate about slavery, justice, and the core values of American society. The ensuing legal battles and moral complexities challenge the nation's understanding of human rights and the legacy of the slave trade.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Amistad yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Amistad (1997)

Trace every key event in Amistad (1997) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Capture of Africans

In Sierra Leone, a group of Africans is captured and sold into slavery, marking the beginning of their harrowing journey. They are placed aboard the ship *La Amistad*, bound for Cuba, unaware of the cruel fate that awaits them.

Sierra Leone
2

Revolt Aboard *La Amistad*

Sengbe Pieh, known as Cinque, leads a daring revolt against the crew of *La Amistad*. This rebellion results in the deaths of most crew members, signaling the captives' desperate fight for freedom.

*La Amistad*
3

Navigating Back to West Africa

Following the revolt, the surviving crew is kept alive by the hopes of the Africans who believe they can navigate the ship back to West Africa. This moment encapsulates the captives' resolve and determination to return to their homeland.

*La Amistad*
4

Land in Sight

After weeks at sea and dwindling supplies, the Africans spot land, bringing a glimmer of hope for fresh water and provisions. They send a group ashore, completely unaware of the lurking dangers.

Near the coast
5

Seizure of *La Amistad*

The *La Amistad* is seized by a U.S. military vessel after the Spaniards deceitfully navigate the ship along the Atlantic coast. The Africans are imprisoned while legal debates ensue regarding their ownership and fate.

U.S. waters
6

Legal Turmoil

Conflicting claims arise over the ownership of the Africans captured aboard *La Amistad*. The Spanish insist that the Africans were born as domestic slaves on a Cuban plantation, complicating their plight for freedom.

Washington, D.C.
7

Abolitionist Allies

In Washington, former President John Quincy Adams teams up with abolitionists Theodore Joadson and Lewis Tappan to rally for the Africans’ freedom. They seek legal assistance, knowing the importance of compelling narratives in court.

Washington, D.C.
8

A New Interpreter

Finding it difficult to communicate with the Africans due to language barriers, the legal team enlists a Royal Navy sailor named James Covey. His presence proves crucial as he bridges the gap, helping Baldwin understand Cinque's harrowing story.

Washington, D.C.
9

Discovery of Evidence

Baldwin stumbles upon a notebook aboard *La Amistad* that documents illegal slave trading activities. This discovery bolsters the abolitionist case, as they prepare for legal battles against powerful interests.

*La Amistad*
10

Supreme Court Appeal

The case reaches the U.S. Supreme Court after immense political pressure, with President Van Buren weighing the economic impacts of releasing the Africans. The predominantly Southern slave-holding justices will play a critical role in the outcome.

U.S. Supreme Court
11

Adams' Emotional Plea

In a pivotal moment, John Quincy Adams delivers a heartfelt appeal in the Supreme Court on behalf of the Africans. His passionate defense contributes to their eventual release and the choice to return to Africa.

U.S. Supreme Court
12

British Marine Intervention

In a parallel narrative, British Royal Marines attack the *Lomboko Slave Fortress*, freeing those unjustly imprisoned. This operation highlights the ongoing struggle against the slave trade in Africa.

Lomboko Slave Fortress
13

Return Home

Cinque and the other Africans make the journey back to Sierra Leone, accompanied by James Covey. However, upon returning, they confront the grim reality of civil unrest and the likely loss of their families.

Sierra Leone
14

Political Fallout

President Van Buren suffers a setback in his political aspirations as he loses his reelection bid following the upheavals surrounding the *Amistad* case. His loss signifies the changing tides of public opinion regarding slavery.

Washington, D.C.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 22:03

Unlock the Full Story of Amistad

Don't stop at just watching — explore Amistad in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Amistad is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Amistad Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Amistad, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Amistad Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Amistad

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Amistad. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Amistad

More About Amistad

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Amistad: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Amistad

Similar Movies to Amistad

Discover movies like Amistad that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.