Assess the accuracy of a Hollywood movie about a particular historical event, movement, or person, using credible sources for support Introduction Squealing tires an

Introduction

Squealing tires and the metallic screech of cars colliding. You whirl around to find two cars crumpled into each other in the intersection. Moments later, the police arrive. As they question you and the other witnesses, you are surprised that everyone has a slightly different story. The red car was speeding. No, the gray one ran the red light. But wait, you are sure you saw a dog run through the road, and that’s why both cars swerved. Who should the police officer believe? And how can the police officer confirm what really happened?

Much like our police officer faced with a variety of different versions of an accident, historians (and history learners like you) also face conflicting information in their research of important events. Throughout history, there are numerous examples of how experts disagree on exactly what happened, when, and where. In short, not all sources of information are created equal. So claims need to be taken with a grain of salt and should be carefully verified. When faced with conflicting information, historians understand the importance of corroborating or confirming their research, by finding additional sources of supporting evidence—like interviewing multiple witnesses at the scene of an accident.

In this fifth assessment, you will apply your communication and problem-solving skills to determine the accuracy of a Hollywood movie about a particular historical event, movement, or person and corroborate historical information and interpretations. By practicing strong problem solving, you not only can ensure that you are looking at all sides of an issue (and that even marginalized groups have a say), but you can also better understand and bolster your sources to make a compelling argument. Outside of this course, corroborating information before you act in the workplace, or even in your family life, can help you solve problems faster and more effectively. It can also help you avoid making a decision based on subjective or misleading information.

Overview

What role do Hollywood movies play in educating the public about historical events or figures? How do we know what’s fact and what’s fiction when we watch these movies? In this assessment, you will put yourself in the shoes of a historian as you write an essay that analyzes a movie about a historical event, person, or issue.

Preparation

Choose and watch a Hollywood film about an event, person (or people), or movement in American history. The film should not be a documentary. Choose from the list below, or contact your instructor if you have another film in mind. As you watch your movie, take careful notes, noting how the filmmakers use setting, dialogue, lighting, and music to portray the historical events, person, or movement. Once you’ve watched and taken notes on your chosen movie, locate credible sources about the historical events or people portrayed in your film. At least one of