The Birth of a Nation

The Birth of a Nation

Year: 2016

Runtime: 120 min

Language: English

BiographyDramaHistory

Nat Turner, an enslaved Baptist preacher, resides on a Virginia plantation under the ownership of Samuel Turner. Hoping to prevent unrest, a cleric persuades Samuel to have Nate preach to other enslaved people. However, witnessing the brutal mistreatment of his fellow man, Nat realizes preaching alone is not enough. Fueled by a desire for justice and freedom, he leads a violent and historic rebellion in Southampton County on August 21, 1831, forever changing the landscape of the South.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Birth of a Nation 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 & Setting – The Birth of a Nation (2016)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Birth of a Nation (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1809-1831

The early 19th century was a period marked by increasing tensions surrounding slavery in America. The time frame of 1809 to 1831 encapsulates significant events leading up to and including Nat Turner's Rebellion, which highlighted the brutal conditions of enslaved people and ignited discussions about resistance and freedom.

Location

Southampton County, Virginia

Southampton County, Virginia, is known for its historical significance during the 19th century, especially regarding the American South's plantation economy. The serene rural landscape contrasts with the harsh realities faced by enslaved individuals, making it a poignant backdrop for Nat Turner's story. It serves as both a physical home and a symbol of oppression.

🏞️ Landscape 🏡 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Main Characters – The Birth of a Nation (2016)

Meet the key characters of The Birth of a Nation (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Nat Turner (Nate Parker)

Nat Turner is a complex character defined by his traumatic experiences and a fierce longing for freedom. Initially appearing as a compliant slave, he evolves into a passionate leader who inspires those around him to fight against oppression. His deep spirituality and eloquence as a preacher amplify his resolve to seek justice for his people.

🗣️ Preacher ⚔️ Rebel 💔 Tragic

Nancy (Aunjanue Ellis)

Nancy is Nat Turner's mother, embodying resilience and maternal devotion. Her unwavering love for her son drives her to protect him, even under the most dire circumstances. She provides a moral compass in Nat's life, fostering his understanding of right and wrong within the confines of enslavement.

👩‍👧 Mother 💪 Strong 🕊️ Caring

Samuel (Armie Hammer)

Samuel represents the privileged class, initially appearing as a friend to Nat. His character arc reveals the complexities of relationships between enslaved individuals and their masters, showcasing moments of camaraderie that are ultimately overshadowed by the societal divide and inherent moral conflicts.

🤝 Friend ⚖️ Conflicted 💡 Enlightened

Cherry (Aja Naomi King)

Cherry, also known as Madison, is a pivotal figure in Nat's life, embodying both the struggles and hopes of enslaved women. Her relationship with Nat serves as a catalyst for his awakening and resistance. She represents the personal costs of the institution of slavery, as her own suffering deeply impacts Nat's choices.

💔 Victim 💍 Wife 🌹 Hopeful

Reverend Walthall (Mark Boone Junior)

Reverend Walthall acts as a mentor to Nat, encouraging him to spread his message through preaching. His character highlights the role of religion in both the oppression of and comfort for the enslaved, revealing the conflicting perspectives within faith in the context of slavery.

⛪ Mentor 📖 Religious 🎤 Influencer

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Major Themes – The Birth of a Nation (2016)

Explore the central themes of The Birth of a Nation (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

✊ Resistance

The theme of resistance is central to Nat Turner's journey as he confronts the brutality of slavery. His transformation from a subservient figure to a fierce leader illustrates the human spirit's capacity for rebellion against oppression. Turner's actions catalyze a significant moment in history, embodying the desire for freedom and justice.

⚖️ Justice

The quest for justice permeates the narrative, as Nat's rebellion highlights the inherent struggle against systemic injustice. As Nat and his fellow enslaved individuals fight for their rights, the story underscores the moral dilemmas faced by both the oppressed and their oppressors, questioning the very fabric of justice in a society built on exploitation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:42

Unlock the Full Story of The Birth of a Nation

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Birth of a Nation 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 The Birth of a Nation is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Birth of a Nation Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Birth of a Nation, 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.

The Birth of a Nation Summary

The Birth of a Nation Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Birth of a Nation with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Birth of a Nation Timeline

More About The Birth of a Nation

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Birth of a Nation: 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 The Birth of a Nation

Similar Movies to The Birth of a Nation

Discover movies like The Birth of a Nation 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.