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.

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Timeline – The Birth of a Nation (2016)

Trace every key event in The Birth of a Nation (2016) 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

Nat Turner's Dream

The film opens with a vivid dream sequence featuring a young Nat Turner, who is led into the woods. There, he encounters a native tribe's leader, who foretells that children with unique birthmarks, such as Nat's scars, are destined for significant purposes.

Unknown Woods
2

Life in Enslavement

Set in Southampton County, Virginia, in 1809, Nat lives with his enslaved family, including his mother Nancy, father Isaac, and grandmother Bridget. They serve the Turner family, and Nat shares moments playing with their son, Samuel.

1809 Southampton County, Virginia
3

Discovery of the Book

One day, while summoned by his mother Elizabeth, Nat discovers a book resting on a rocking chair on the porch. This encounter intrigues him and marks the beginning of his journey into literacy and knowledge.

Unknown Turner Family Porch
4

Isaac's Confrontation

On a fateful night, Nat's father Isaac is caught stealing food by a group of white men led by Raymond Cobb. In the ensuing chaos, Isaac seizes Cobb's gun, resulting in a fatal gunshot, forcing him to flee into the woods for safety.

Unknown Turner Family Property
5

Learning to Read

During a discussion while hanging laundry, Elizabeth reveals Nat's ability to read to his mother, Nancy. She offers to teach him further, beginning with the Bible, which greatly influences Nat's future.

Unknown Turner Family Property
6

Nat's First Sermon

Embracing his newfound literacy, Nat delivers a sermon at church, captivating the congregation with his passionate preaching. His ability to inspire others marks him as a pivotal figure in his community.

Unknown Local Church
7

The Slave Auction

Time shifts to 1831, and Nat, now played by Nate Parker, rides with Samuel past a slave auction. He is mesmerized by a woman named Cherry and convinces Samuel to buy her for $275, demonstrating his desire to protect her.

1831 Slave Auction
8

Violence and Confrontation

Shortly after returning home, Nat faces violence when he fetches a toy for a white boy, leading the boy's father to brutally beat him. Samuel intervenes, vowing to retaliate, highlighting the racial tensions of the era.

Unknown Turner Family Property
9

Marriage to Cherry

As Nat grows closer to Cherry, who is revealed to be named Madison, they secretly marry with Bridget officiating. Their union brings them joy amidst the harsh realities of life as enslaved people.

Unknown Turner Family Property
10

Witness to Brutality

During Nat's preaching journeys, he observes the horrific treatment of fellow slaves by their masters. These brutal experiences deeply impact Nat, fueling his resolve for justice and resistance.

Unknown Various Plantations
11

Cherry's Assault

After a horrific event where Cherry is attacked by Cobb's men, Nat finds her severely injured. This incident becomes a turning point for Nat, igniting his anger and desire for rebellion against their oppressors.

Unknown Turner Family Property
12

Nat's Call to Rebellion

Filled with rage after Cherry's assault, Nat's sermons become increasingly impassioned. He confronts Samuel over their oppressive situation, leading to a pivotal clash that escalates tensions among the enslaved community.

Unknown Turner Family Property
13

The Rebellion

Nat unleashes a rebellion against the oppressors, attacking Samuel fatally and instigating chaos in the community. The uprising draws a violent response from whites, culminating in a brutal confrontation.

Unknown Southampton County
14

Nat's Capture

After the uprising, Nat is captured and decides to surrender to avoid further bloodshed. He faces a furious mob, enduring a brutal beating before being taken to the gallows, where he remains steadfast.

Unknown Gallows
15

Legacy and Conclusion

As he awaits execution, Nat proclaims, 'I’m ready,' before being hanged, his vision of Cherry as an angel lingering. The film ends by revealing the violent legacy of his rebellion and its devastating impact on both white and black communities.

Unknown Gallows

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 23:39

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The Birth of a Nation Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Birth of a Nation

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