When Col. Robert Shaw's body was recovered by Confederates, they buried him with his black soldiers as an insult. The Union offered to his family re-internment at home in Boston, but they declined, saying he had no better resting place then amidst his valiant soldiers.
@@paulkerr5082 that was Col. Robert Gould Shaw’s wish, and it was respected. However over the years because of hurricanes and erosion, their bodies were mostly washed out into the sea.
He also came from a very wealthy family in Boston. He didn’t have to enlist, his family could have got him out, or at least made him in officer doing clerical work or something else off the front lines. He volunteered because he believed in it. He also volunteered to lead the 54th. He was an exceptional human being. I have a book called Blue Eyed of Fortune that is a collection of all the letters he wrote home during the war. You get to hear some during the movie. The opening scene where he’s marching into the battle of Antietam and Broderick is reading one of the letters is amazing. “The evil eye may wither, and the hearts blessing may heal, and good will overcome all odds. Your son, Robert”. Then he marches right into the lions den. Chills every time.
I agree! What the 54th did was truly brave, leading the charge on Wagner dispite being overwhelmingly outnumbered and almost guaranteed to suffer the most casualties of any regiment attacking. They volunteered to lead the charge that day knowing the cost was high and I am still moved by their bravery. This movie inspired not only black American's but I hope that it continues to inspire all people, regardless of ethnicity.
Andre Braugher became one of my favorite actors because of this movie. He had such screen presence. Hollywood lost a magnificent actor. May he rest in peace.
This scene never fails to bring tears to my eyes. Andre Braugher's primal scream never fails to bring chills to my spine. Now that he's gone, both things will be even more true.
That scream and then the group running through to the enemy only for them to get shot with that cannon are my favorite scenes of this most wonderful of movies.
I love that Thomas defends, disarms and bayonets the guy that attacks him in the EXACT same way that he was so harshly shown how in training when the instructor beat him up.
@@black8aron965 that said, getting smoked by Drill Sergeants or service equivalents still sucks and said suck must be embraced so you will bleed less and develop a thicker skin. The commands no servicemember past or present wants to hear "HALF-RIGHT...FACE" and "FRONT LEANING REST POSITION, MOVE" is cringey and always will be
Captain Cartman So epic, some of it made it to the Civil War game that was released on PS2. I had it. Great gameplay for its time. First game I saw troops run into each other and butting rifles against while using more than one melee attack.
It really did, I purchased it for my father as a gift and he has it sitting in his antique showcase with his civil war collected items. James Horner the composer is a genius, he also composed the Titanic
Very moving scene...I remember vividly the night my friends and I saw this at the theater, right after Col Shaw is shot a gasp went up from the crowd and when Tripp grabbed the flag and yelled "COME ON!! guys were standing up from their seats and cheering on the 54th....and at the very end of the movie after the final scene nobody moved...many were in tears and a lot stuck around just to hear the great music being played during the credits....such an awesome movie...should have won a Best Picture Oscar.
Better scouting & waiting for more men might’ve elevated the 54th to possibly higher heights in history as they could’ve taken Fort Wagner with a siege or attrition battle, but this was their fate. Rest easy 54th!
"The black soldiers marched side by side with their white comrades in arms to the assault. I tell it with pride to the world, the parapet is 30 feet high. Col. Shaw was the first man to mount that high parapet. He waved his sword and shouted 'COME ON BOYS' and then fell dead. He died well. Neither Greece nor Rome can excel his heroism." - Regimental Surgeon's letter to the Shaw family
Fang, it's you're not "your". This is also a place to remember what bravery and unity is truly about, but you sit there on your keyboard, in the comfort of your home, dividing people with your sick language and insinuations. Show some respect for the fallen; those who died for this country.
I tear up when Trip raises the flag and dies doing so. The day before, Shaw offered him to be the flag bearer, but refused, saying he wasn't fighting for the flag. Then when Shaw died, the last of his thick skin and tough ego was gone. He realized what the flag might not yet represent, but what Shaw and many who died wanted it to represent. Trip knew such a flag and nation belonged to him also. He knew what he had to do, even at the cost of his own life.
As well, one must NEVER forget the actions taken by Sgt. William H. Carney who shown extreme bravery under fire at Ft.Wagner....en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Harvey_Carney
Great as this movie was, it did not do justice to the actual soldier portrayed by Denzel Washington. In real life, his name was Sgt. William Carney. In the actual battle, he did pick up the colors when the first color bearer was killed. And like Washington's "Trip," he was shot. But he carried the flag all the way to the top of the wall and held it there. Remember that Union soldier up on the wall of the fort yelling, "Rally!"...? That was Carney. And when the regiment finally withdrew, he came behind them, still under fire, still taking hits, still carrying the flag. White Union soldiers from the 100th NY Regiment, seeing the shape he was in, offered to take it for him; he refused. These were 54th Mass colors, he said, a 54th soldier would bring them back. He was hit again, but wouldn't stop until he made it back to his regiment. All he said was, "The old flag never touched the ground." For this action, Sgt. Carney became the first Black soldier awarded the Medal of Honor...37 years later. He was never buried in the sand with Col. Robert Shaw. He died in 1908.
Thank you for this snippet of history, it is always a delight to have someone comment in this way outside of the usual "who was better" tirades that fill up the commentary section. Coming from New Zealand, my initial knowledge of the 54th was merely via the movie and over the years it has been interesting to learn more and more about the participants. Cheers.
***** Also true. The Confederates thought this would humiliate the Shaw family; the father's response shut them down. But in its own way, the exchange between the two sides offered some real insight into the very different mentalities of North and South.
Greg Gross Denzel's character of Trip was NOT based on William Carney. His character was a composite character of how 1860's black slaves were. Of the slaves then, most were uneducated and understandably racist... And before you start spouting facts about what Carney did, learn to make it known that you are not trying to claim you were there. Carney COULD HAVE been the 10th soldier to grab the flag or he could have been the 100th.
TheLuvers666 Another neo-Confederate trying to rewrite history. Denzel's character was indeed a composite of characters, one of whom most definitely WAS William Carney. And the *slaves* were racist? You just flushed any credibility you *might* have had.
I never said that William Carney was not an inspiration for the character, I was merely stating that he was not THE William Carney. As far as the racist thing goes, why would a slave not be racist? And if t hat is too harsh a term for it, fine, how about, at the very least, harboring an inner disdain for those that are oppressing - if not beating - them? Imagine living like an abused animal these days, now try imagining being a slave - repeatedly beaten despite your inhumane work, little to no formal education, no one to call a "loved one" and ZERO hope in the immediate or far distant future of freedom - in 1860's. If people can feel the harshness of slavery despite all the glorious IMPROVEMENTS over the days in the film, imagine what it must have been like when you had to actually go to a well to simply get some water. In short, black slaves were not lining the streets for the funerals of white people back then. I am next to certain, the black slaves harbored an ill will towards their treatment, leading to their racist - if nothing more than revengeful - ways
An escaped Slave named William Harvey Carney. Was a soldier attached to the 54th Massachusetts regiment and for his gallantry and bravery he was awarded the Medal of Honor for the assault of Ft.Wagner during the civil war and for saving the regimental colors during the battle. That men and many others have shown courage, bravery and heroism by overcoming obstacles. These men were not slaves, these men were soldiers, but more importantly, each and every man regardless of race was a hero. God bless all of them
Shaw had a great arch in this movie. In the beginning we see him cowering when his unit takes fire. Even playing dead. Then by the end he is leading the charge knowing he will likely die.
I met Matt Broadrick at the San Diego Comic Con in 95 and told him I thought he got deprived a leading man Oscar for Glory. It was one of the finest performances he's ever given.
Omg me too I met him in a signing I was 12 and I told him I loved him in glory and said he was the best actor I've ever seen I started to cry and he just smiled at me and hugged me sigh I never washed that shirt again
Yeah... He was an incredible composer. Glory, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Aliens, Willow, Titanic... He was my favorite composer behind John Williams and Jerry Goldsmith.
This movie is a masterpiece. It's actually impacted my life. When I was in 5th grade, we wrote letters to soldiers deployed during operation desert shield. I wrote to a soldier wishing my best and talked about how this movie scared me about war. Many years later I was in Baghdad on my first tour as an Infantryman in 2008.
I love Thomas's scream as he reached the peak of fort Wagner walls. That scream says everything! Pure fear and adrenaline kicking in and just owning that current situation. Just owning it in it's pure moment! A prideful and terrifying scream all at the same time. Just war! Summed up in a scream! War cry!
As a student of Civil War tactics, I love the part where the color bearer is yelling "Rally....Rally" meaning look for the colors and merge here. Also Freeman's "Form a firing line right here!" that it was not every man for himself and units looked to get back together even in disjointed chaotic fights like this one. It was not every man on his own.
The standard barer was yelling "Robert" no "Rally". If memory serves correctly this pays homage to one of the men of the 54th who took up the flag and was chanting "ROBERT" during the entire engagement after Shaw died. Actually, IIRC, "Robert" was the rallying call of the 54th during the battle.
This scene reminded me of this war veteran's story from Argentina, his unit full of 18-20 year olds, were all scared and tired in a cold night after having walked many kilometers and even crossed a stream making them almost entirely soaked, scared of how they were listening to the combat that was going on on top of a hill when they arrived, and how exhausted everyone was. All of them refused to continue, they just couldn't, until their lieutenant arrived, who shouted "Viva la Patria! Carrera Mar!" (carrera mar is an expression to say "Double march!" commonly used during trainings) and started charging, alone, towards the top of the hill, then, the sergeant, corporal and second lieutenant started running towards there too, and just like that, the whole unit charged to the top, encouraged by them. It looks like a hero movie scene, but this things actually have happened throughout history.
I always tear up at scenes like this. When soldiers are led forward with a final rallying cry into a suicide charge and a sweeping choir plays over them
One of the best battle scenes I've ever seen in movies. I especially love the music and lighting that make the whole battle seem like some bizarre antechamber of hell.
The fort was abandoned Sept. 7, 1863. Less than two months after the second assault of July 18th. The 54th was garrisoned inside Battery Wagner, now renamed Fort Wagner, before they moved out of Charleston and continued Gen. Gilmore's campaign into Florida. The regiment participated in the Battle of Olustee, Battle of Honey Hill, and Battle of Boykin's Mill.
This is the finest charge ever put to film or TV. Not because of grand scale, but because of the message and overall emotional investment. It’s simply a perfect scene. Start to finish. Don’t get me started on the score. James Horner was a master and this film alone made him a legend in my book.
That ending moment is like a painting. This movie always leaves me feeling exhausted, as if I fought the battle myself. And the soundtrack is incredible. One of the best Civil War movies ever.
NotSoTypical My great great great grand something was a white officer in the 54th. I pretend he's Cary Elwes. He managed to survive. But, if Morgan Freeman (aka god died) I cannot fathom that.
Jason Wilson There's a 3rd white officer there throughout the movie as well, he just never says anything. Maybe your great grand something was him. Right before the charge, he's in front of the line.
***** Don't feed the Trolls. That being said this scene always breaks my heart, to make it so far and so close, only to be defeated... It's not just the 54th that deserve respect, but every troop who defended the Union, upheld the Federation, and held our nation together. The 54th is but a small piece in the cogs of freedom, but without even one of them, the whole system would fall apart.
Mike Gates How sad, justifying collectivism, trying to force diversity, just sad. Would you define freedom for everyone here, I think we would like to know just what you are talking about, and also to keep you from obfuscating the facts with your statist mouth. The union is a lie, chaos is a ladder, and Yugoslavie turned into an ethnic cleansing bloodbath.
Mike Gates What I hate is that countless lives didn't have to be ended, if only McClellan wasn't so cautious, I sugar coated it..., then the war would've been won much faster. At the siege of Richmond, Virginia, when the defenders charged back, McClellan retreated, even though he outnumbered them by the tens of thousands...
This is exactly how my mom’s 4 year fight with colon cancer went. She was fighting so hard, we were winning, we were charging and taking hills and then we ran into an impenetrable wall on September 14, 2022. I love you mom, we miss you so much.
Same thing happened to my mom. She had two different kinds of cancer that she battled and successfully beat. And then the third one was just too much for her. August 11th, 2021. I'm sorry you lost your mom as well. Cancer is a horrible beast.
I feel for you. I lost my mother two weeks before you lost yours last year. Greatest pain I’ve ever endured in life. But she died fighting. Just as I’m sure your mother did. Remember her as the person she was, not the one that breathed their final breath on that hospital bed.
Greets from Europe. This scene always make me cry..., Freedom has no race, religion or nation, Freedom is for everyone. RIP 54th, and greets to all good women and men around the world.
Very well said, my friend. My great great great grandfather was a part of the 54th Mass. I remember seeing this movie when I was 12 or 13 and it changed my life. It reminded me that there is such thing as dying for a noble cause, and that cause is freedom from tyranny. Every country, nation, ethnicity should be compelled to defend themselves against the threat of slavery and that's what the 54th represented for all people. God bless you, from Austin, Texas.
God bless you too, and Honour & Human spirit cannot be sold or given, either someone has it or not, and you have it, greets and wish you everythin best. Cheers from Croatia.
I dont know my friend, I wish I could give you a straight answer on that. I saw many ppl in my life using freedom to such extent they're ruined their lives, ppl out of any control... If I would have to answer you what is freedom truly? well, to me..., It's Honour..., means I couldn't live with somethin which is totally without honour, nevermind is it govermont or person or ppl around me... I would just leave somewhere, or if I would have a chance..., like this ppl from this clip, to die for somethin RIGHT, for somethin you know it's right, somethin which is not written in any manual book for behaviour etc, but what you know deep down is right. Dont know what else to say... I am eternal optimist, when it's most hardest in life and when it's good. Freedom is connected to Honour IMO, not pride, but honour. cheers
With Morgan Freeman, I like the end of the clip where he is running down the rampart with the flag behind him. I swear, he was American as apple pie. Great actor, I love him.
I just saw this movie today for a class in college, and i have to say that this whole scene was a damn work of pure cinematic art. The lighting, the visuals, the absolutely marvelous music... This was skin crawling and marvelous to look at when i first saw it and i just HAD to rewind it. It truly felt like it transported you back in time, and placed you right at the very center of the battlefield in that fateful day.
I agree. It felt like you went back in time with your video camera and recorded them right there in action. It's like you almost forget you're watching a movie. Brilliant
4 real! In my opinion this is the best war movie ever made! I cannot see how they could've made the 1st battle of Fort Wagner any better than they did. Absolute master piece and still gives me goosebumps even though i have literally watched this movie over 100 times
ethan hatcher this movie needs to be broadcast on every channel in America and have every nfl player watch it also so they understand why they should stand for the flag
The battle was lost, but the 54th inspired tens of thousands of African Americans to join the union cause. Despite being a tactical loss, the battle brought an immense strategic advantage to the union.
We have to remember that we've fought together, bled together. I see so much hate for whites certain blacks these days, just as certain whites continue to broadcast their own hatred. It's so stupid...we've been pushed this direction by the powers that be because we were, a few years ago, closer than ever to finally uniting completely. And that scared them...because once we're united, once the infighting stops, then we can turn our collective attention onto the real problems that face us. We've always been stronger together.
By far the greatest Civil War battle on screen. This scene made me cry buckets. I knew the outcome since I read about the history but I cried just the same. The final mass grave scene is also a tearjerker.
@Jesus Christ If by come together you mean together in denouncing racism and the evil for which Confederates fought, fine. If you mean attempting to hide the wrongs of the past behind a veneer of togetherness, then fuck that.
When Denzel picked up that flag, the music dropped & infantry 54 just saw their colonel Matthew Broderick die; I still get goosebumps. To this day I am a 24 yr old black male, I believe we have come a long way though it still saddens me the racism & hate which in today's world. This is a great movie. I don't see color, just trust & character. I hope I am alive to see more change & progress & if not, I'll remain content in waiting. *Thx "USA" network for playing this film during Black History Month
You know, those bodies colored and white bodies buried in front of that fort Wagner putrifid the water supply and forced the Confederates to abandon that fort eventually. It's important to remember this stuff. As well as all of the boys who died from all over fighting for what they believed in. Not 600 yards from my computer is a woman's home who lost four of her sons in a few years time in Union regiments. All volunteers fighting for the north. I'll bet there's anywhere from six to ten people in this entire region who're even aware of that.
refugeeca That's astounding to think.. these days 10% casualties is considered a bloodbath in the US Military. In the Civil War 40-50% casualties were the norm. More so in some desperate engagements.
God that ending where the score swells you think it’s gonna end with a victory but they meet their demise which I’m sure happened in many battles throughout history. Just truly tragic.
Remember watching this in public school in 8th grade It was already my favorite movie. The school was 90%+ minority and all the kids were ragging on the film the first day. The third day we watched the ending. I remember the class was completely silent and alot of kids were wiping away tears by the end of the movie. Everyone got it.
I love the part where Thomas uses the tactic that SGT Mulcahy used on him during training it shows that you may not like your drill SGT during basic but what they do may just save your life
Finally a civil war that isn't southern apologist. I was so nervous seeing this movie expecting it to be featuring good country boys. Glad it got it right Trivia fact, Shaw fell into the fort when killed, his men went ballistic and fought like tigers to get him back. The rest together in a new location after being moved as the battle site was being eroded. His father took immense pride in his son being buried in a grave with his soldiers. Saying his son wouldn't want it any other way.
You want to see a good civil war movie that doesn't whitewash the history or romanticize the conflict? Watch Ride With The Devil, which is told from the SOUTHERN perspective no less. It is my second favourite CW movie, before Cold Mountain and after Glory.
@My Channel The movie need not damn the South as they did that sufficiently themselves. The South damned themselves, with their States' Rights to own SLAVES.
@My Channel lol you would get triggered let me post excerpts from the documents of secession as soon as im done my breakfast... another Southern apologist...
@My Channel The PRIMARY casus belli for the war was the institution of slavery and its preservation from a Southern perspective. While there are complex factors that led to the outbreak of war, it is simply a fact that the events leading up to Sumter and the ensuing war, which remains to this day the most destructive war in US history, primarily centred around the political movement in the capitol gaining traction since the Revolution, whose goal it was to see the EVENTUAL abolition of states’ rights to hold slaves and the eradication of a slave economy in the Southern States, and their opponents in Congress and elsewhere who sought to uphold the plainly immoral practice. If that assertion is too complicated for you to comprehend then by all means, let us look at the primary sources, in this case the documents of secession, penned by the leaders of the Confederate movement themselves and directed towards the federal government in Washington DC: Mississippi: ‘Our position is throughly identified with the institution of SLAVERY- the greatest material interest of the world.’ Texas: ‘The SERVITUDE of the African race, as existing in the States is mutually beneficial to bond and free, and is abundantly authorized and justified by the experience of mankind, and revealed will of the Almighty Creator, as recognized by all Christian nations.’ South Carolina: ‘…and have denied the rights of property established in fifteen of the States and recognized by the Constitution; they have denounced as sinful the institution of SLAVERY; they (loyalist states) have permitted open establishment among them of societies, whose avowed object is to disturb the peace and to eloign the PROPERTY of the citizens of other States.’ Georgia: ‘That reason was (the loyalist states’) fixed purpose to limit, restrain, and finally abolish SLAVERY in the Unites States where it exists. The South with great UNANIMITY declared her purpose to resist the principle of prohibition to the LAST EXTREMITY.’ Furthermore, every secessionist declaration mentions Lincoln’s suspected abolitionist disposition, their clear antipathy towards the abolitionist movement at large within the same documents notwithstanding. I could go on but I believe these four entries adequately describe the feelings and policy of the seceding states at the time, and how their eventual commencement of hostilities with the federal government reflects a socio-political and psychological identification with the institution of slavery of those of African descent or African origin. Again, it must be stressed for those who deny it, while SLAVERY is NOT the ONLY reason warfare between North and South broke out and the country descended into brutal civil war, it is the PRIMARY reason, or casus belli. History shows, despite ill-fated attempts to revise it, that the Civil War taken within the context of these documents, could be confidently said to have been fought over the abhorrent institution of slavery and by extension the slave-driven agrarian economy in the Southern States. Any argument that mentions states’ rights or economic issues, haphazardly ignore the fact that these STATES’ RIGHTS were concerning the RIGHT TO OWN HUMAN BEINGS AS PROPERTY, or to protect a cotton trade dependent on SLAVE LABOUR. An attempt to divorce these concepts from the core discourse of the American Civil War is simply an attempt to lie and mislead. Either you have been led astray or you refuse to accept the reality. In either instance I am feel bad for you and I know you can do and be better, especially with how you demonstrate a love of history, which I appreciate. Good day and I wish you all the best.
@My Channel the VP of thr Confederacy literally said the entire idea of succession was the preservation and EXPANSION of slavery. And that anything else is irrelevant by comparison" So unless we making shit up, you just can't let go of the idea that you fell for the mot disgusting lie of American history. Simple fact is your and I ancestors killed their fellow man to keep people in chains
I used to do volunteer work at the state house in Boston, the memorial is literally right across the street from the house. When I learned about it being desecrated I was devastated. I hope they caught the idiots who did it.
the end of the movie has a scene where we see Trip/Denzel being rolled into a mass grave, and Shaw/Broderick rolled on top. I always saw it from the perspective that, we are all equal in death. Apparently, the confederacy usually buried the bodies if officers separately out of respect, but did not for Shaw, in contempt of a white man who lead black soldiers. After the war, when Shaw's parents visited the fort, they were offered the chance to have his body exhumed so they could repatriate it to their home state. They declined, saying he was surrounded by the men he loved.
Regardless of their background, personality, or race, these men all stood together to fight for the unity and survival of a nation and even more importantly freedom. I couldn't think of anything possibly more heroic then that.
So well said. After this battle the confederates found Shaw amongst the dead and instead of burying him with the officers, they threw him in the trench where the dead Union black soldiers were. They did this as an insult because he led black troops. In the end Shaw wouldn't have wanted it any other way. He would have wanted to be buried with the men that he led into battle. The southerners meant it as an insult, but it ended up being a honor. God bless Shaw. God bless the memory of 54th Mass.
No ones else even got close, hats off 54th. Denzel's Washington's character in real life walked back to camp with 4 bullet holds and the American flag. Got him the Medal of Honor , real patriot.
Henry Meanwell he walked back with the assistance of a member of the NY 100 which would had been a white regiment. I believe that soldier also suffered gun wounds. The sgt never dropped the flag.
@@dougmphilly yep! Several soldiers from other units offered to carry the colors so he could medical assistance and he responded “ these are the 54ths colors the 54th will bring them back”
Stay united American's. Don't let the tiny baying mob destroy you our your amazing country. Remember the sacrifices of the men who gave their last full measure of devotion. Greetings from Ireland. God bless.
@@MrFuzyUnibrow The only idiot here is you. leftists were rioting and looting multiple cities across the country FOR MONTHS, INCLUDING Washington D.C in 2020. The Capitol city was literally on FIRE (just look up the pictures of 2020 riots). Now compare that to ONE DAY (1) of "mostly peaceful protests" that resulted in a few broken windows vs BILLIONS of dollars of damages that happened last summer. Both should be condemn but lets stop pretending that jan 6 was worse than what we saw last year.
@@lavrentivs9891 I love Braveheart as great cinema but its a work of fiction. Glory is really on another level entirely while still being as engrossing as Braveheart, if not more so!
But the fort was abandoned on sep cuz fearing the fort cannot hold other attack since from bombarment of mixed cannon and battle ship make the defence weaker and containment of water supply cuz of mass grave burial
That short moment at the crescendo as they halt and prepare for the cannon blast is modern work of art. Freeze frame it. Could be one of the greatest bronze sculptures ever made. Cannon fire in the background, flags waving, our heroes standing defiant, frozen for eternity...
Watching this in school, the movie credits began to roll, right after the scene showing the Confederate flag over Fort Wagner, the main characters being thrown into a mass grave and the epilogue describing how the fort was never captured during the course of the war. Sure enough, the dumbest person in the class pipes up during the stunned silence. "So like, who won?"
I am not sure what you mean who won. The Confederates won the battle. The Yankees won the war. The Yankees being thrown into the mass grave should have told who won the battle.
I love that the stuttering man (I forget his name) turned out to be one of the most ruthless yet level-headed fighters in the whole unit. If you pay attention to his actions throughout the movie they spend almost all his scenes developing that in his arc.
between the cinematography, the music, the characters all blossoming into their best selves, one of my all time favorite scenes in a movie. You fall in love with every character in this movie.
This battle was a disaster for the 54th and the other larger white regiments attacking the fort. The 54th lost almost half of their 600 men attacking this fort, including their officers. The Civil War was very deadly. They lost the battle, but proved that they made good soldiers.
+Jim Gillgam Sadly casualties over 50% where quite common. The loss expectancy for a regiment that participated in action was 30% for each action. The famous 20th Maine for instance saw participation in seven campaigns and serious action in three. Out of 1,600 soldiers that where assigned to the regiment, 700 would be killed or wounded. 45%. The Iron brigade suffered 75% loses in the first day of Gettysburg alone and they where crack soldiers that had fought in five major actions before they even arrived at Gettysburg. Worse still had been the rate of loss for Confederate regiments, especially late-war. As terrible as it is, the loses of the 54th was nothing out of the ordinary.
And yet this battle gave enough reason to allow for so many other black troops to enlist. And it gave teeth to the Emancipation Proclamation. And the courage of these men put to death the myth that southerners had that black soldiers would turn and run- it proved right out that they were just as good as a white soldier. Fort Wagner might not have been successful, but long term, it was one of the pivotal moments of the war, as well as of African American history in the 19th century. As important as the Proclamation and the passage of the 13th Amendment.
@@naomiwashinton8102 Indeed. One of my ancestors was in the 1st Minnesota. They suffered around 82% casualties at Gettysburg, but had already been whittled down by casualties in previous battles and of course by disease and the like (put down more men than combat did). They had 28% casualties I think at Antietam and suffered one of the higher casualty rates for Union regiments at 1st Bull Run. Being a Civil War soldier was potentially deadly business all around.
I see a lot of people commenting how they saw this in 8th grade as a part of history class. I remember being very interested in the civil war during 8th grade and was hoping to see this movie in class. There were two main history teachers at my school and they both played different civil war movies for their classes. One played Gone With the Wind, and one played Glory. I was stuck in the class who saw 'gone with the wind' and I was PISSED and bored. Saw this movie on my own and loved it since.
Yep one of the greatest scenes of the movie. He was clearly the fictional representative in the movie of William Carney, who won the Medal of Honor for doing something quite similar in the real life battle. He survived and IIRC died in 1908.
I think he realises he's not picking up the flag to show respect to the "white men" he's picking up the flag to show respect to all his black and white brothers in the 54th. 👍
Wasn't until someone brought to my attention that Thomas dodging the Confederate soldier's bayonet, taking the rifle, knocking him down and stabbing him was exactly like the Drill Instructor had some to him earlier in the movie...showing he actually learned from it. RIP Andre Braugher
They definitely they need to leave the union statues alone. I couldn't care less, however, about defacing confederate monuments. Those guys were traitorous losers, nothing more.
My favorite movie. Just because of the perfection of this scene. Denzel shouting at them before getting shot and them charging always sends goosebumps down my spine
I saw this in the theaters and it was incredible on the big screen. This final moment in the movie brought me to tears and I remember my girlfriend at the time, looking over at me and asked me "Are you crying? This is what you cry at, a war movie?" I told her "You dont understand, our country was split in half, we were fighting ourselves, these were are all Americans dying and killing each other."
Just a heart wrenching scene, the brave men of the 54th charged Fort Wagner knowing that they were facing almost certain death. A charge that should have never been made because the confederates were dug in and the fort was only accessible from one side. That made no difference to the 54th regiment, their nobility will live on forever.
It’s just not fair, that after all that, the Confederates held on to the fort, even after two other battalions stormed it after the 54th Regiment. War is a real bitch. God bless the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, nor their bravery, nor will their place in history. 🇺🇸
The 54th got the last laugh. The Confederates buried them too close to their own underground water supply and the bodies poisoned the water. They had to abandoned Wagner or risk dehydration when Sherman started closing in. The 54th won from beyond the grave.
@@folklore19 That's not true. They abandoned the fort after 60 days because of constant bombardment, lack of provisions and the close Union trenches. If the water supply was poisoned they wouldn't have lasted 60 days.
I swear, they all did such a good job, Denzel Washington, Mathew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, Cary Elwes. I cannot praise them highly enough in this film.
I first watched this in my history class and I absolutely loved this movie. The final battle was sad, but the music made it epic. R.I.P 54th, you will always be remembered.
Actually you're not really right. The people who had once enslaved many of them, were extremely wealthy and were able to essentially buy their way out of having to fight. They either paid a few hundred dollars, or they could volunteer a number of their slaves to go fight in lieu of their owners.The Confederates you see fighting in these battles, are some of the poorest southerners there were. They couldn't afford to buy their way out with money or slaves to give.
Yes. Standing up for believing in a illegal invasion on the south. Using slavery as a moral booster after getting your ass kicked. Then telling history as if the reason the south fought was to keep slavery and not because 80% of the country's taxes came from the south and was used for the north. Not talking about how European countries wouldn't trade with slave owning states so slavery was going to end anyway and that most of the south did not own slaves. My family released theirs 28 years before the war. Then the north used black troops as fodder after this battle so their white troops didn't have to die as much. Fight for believing lies people tell you Go for it.
IDK all Americans are brave the CSA’s lose was because of logistics they simply couldn’t buy as many weapons or immigrants as the Union could, in the end when both sides are the same ppl from the same nation it all comes down to logistics.
@@davidr1037 While you're right, the North could have easily lost the war due to dwindling support. New York and other notable cities rioted because they did not want to get drafted to fight a country that just wanted to be left alone. And also the Trent Affair, if it went wrong it would have sparked Great Britain and possibly France to intervene and assist the South, which is bad news for the North. Many ways the North could've lost it.
@@davidr1037 Makes the CSA even more stupid for attacking the USA in the first place. Not only because they wanted to keep slavery and spread it to other states while most countries abolished it, but also for going up against a more powerful enemy that they only had a small chance of winning against.
There will never be a more powerful and intense closing scene ever again in cinema history. What a scene, the intensity makes you feel like you are charging the mound with them.
When Col. Robert Shaw's body was recovered by Confederates, they buried him with his black soldiers as an insult. The Union offered to his family re-internment at home in Boston, but they declined, saying he had no better resting place then amidst his valiant soldiers.
That’s damn beautiful
@@rokkfel4999 Yes
@@paulkerr5082 that was Col. Robert Gould Shaw’s wish, and it was respected. However over the years because of hurricanes and erosion, their bodies were mostly washed out into the sea.
Lol, as an "insult". It ain't an insult if that was their intention from the start (to be buried this way, I mean).
He also came from a very wealthy family in Boston. He didn’t have to enlist, his family could have got him out, or at least made him in officer doing clerical work or something else off the front lines. He volunteered because he believed in it. He also volunteered to lead the 54th. He was an exceptional human being. I have a book called Blue Eyed of Fortune that is a collection of all the letters he wrote home during the war. You get to hear some during the movie. The opening scene where he’s marching into the battle of Antietam and Broderick is reading one of the letters is amazing. “The evil eye may wither, and the hearts blessing may heal, and good will overcome all odds. Your son, Robert”. Then he marches right into the lions den. Chills every time.
Honestly I feel like this was Matthew Broderick's best movie
+Kita Lorraine It's in my top 3 of best movies of all time. It represents what it really means to be human.
I agree! What the 54th did was truly brave, leading the charge on Wagner dispite being overwhelmingly outnumbered and almost guaranteed to suffer the most casualties of any regiment attacking. They volunteered to lead the charge that day knowing the cost was high and I am still moved by their bravery. This movie inspired not only black American's but I hope that it continues to inspire all people, regardless of ethnicity.
I agree,he don’t curse,that’s good.
Matt had less serious roles...but here he put it on the line... beautiful actors ❤
Yes I think so too great movie the country almost destroyed itself.
Thomas turning warrior mode is hands down one of the best moments in cinematic history. His war cry is pure animal
Sgt Major Mulcahy would be proud.
Andre Braugher became one of my favorite actors because of this movie. He had such screen presence. Hollywood lost a magnificent actor. May he rest in peace.
This scene never fails to bring tears to my eyes. Andre Braugher's primal scream never fails to bring chills to my spine. Now that he's gone, both things will be even more true.
He deserved an Oscar, hands down.
He's gone?!!!😢 I didn't know.
Rest in Glory Thomas🕊️
That scream and then the group running through to the enemy only for them to get shot with that cannon are my favorite scenes of this most wonderful of movies.
I love that Thomas defends, disarms and bayonets the guy that attacks him in the EXACT same way that he was so harshly shown how in training when the instructor beat him up.
subasurf “You sweat in training so you bleed less in war”
hell yeah
@@black8aron965 that said, getting smoked by Drill Sergeants or service equivalents still sucks and said suck must be embraced so you will bleed less and develop a thicker skin.
The commands no servicemember past or present wants to hear "HALF-RIGHT...FACE" and "FRONT LEANING REST POSITION, MOVE" is cringey and always will be
That mick sergeant did his job well
He still gets stuck in the back!
My God this film has the absolute most epic soundtrack in movie history.
Captain Cartman So epic, some of it made it to the Civil War game that was released on PS2. I had it. Great gameplay for its time. First game I saw troops run into each other and butting rifles against while using more than one melee attack.
Yep James Horner is the best!
It's one of the better Civil War films as well
It really did, I purchased it for my father as a gift and he has it sitting in his antique showcase with his civil war collected items.
James Horner the composer is a genius, he also composed the Titanic
Bought the soundtrack years ago that's how much I loved it
Very moving scene...I remember vividly the night my friends and I saw this at the theater, right after Col Shaw is shot a gasp went up from the crowd and when Tripp grabbed the flag and yelled "COME ON!! guys were standing up from their seats and cheering on the 54th....and at the very end of the movie after the final scene nobody moved...many were in tears and a lot stuck around just to hear the great music being played during the credits....such an awesome movie...should have won a Best Picture Oscar.
ok and?
@@CW-yp9jo you just don't get it huh??
What a dick reply
No kidding. Instead, best picture that year went to “Driving Miss Daisy” & this masterpiece wasn’t even nominated for best picture.
@J S you must be one of those "pro Confederacy" losers still in denial to this day.
If you’re gonna go out, go out like these men.
Damn Straight
Patriotic and unity!
Better scouting & waiting for more men might’ve elevated the 54th to possibly higher heights in history as they could’ve taken Fort Wagner with a siege or attrition battle, but this was their fate. Rest easy 54th!
@@Ben-ek1fz
Marching right into a forts defences in broad daylight ?
My History teacher played this in the last few days of school when i was in 8th grade, great way to end middle school
Same here!
AllTime Warrior Whole movie.
AllTime Warrior whole movie
AllTime Warrior im sure its not that bad of a word for a movie, well were also allowed to watch To kill a mockingbird and that had the n word in it
+AllTime Warrior Who are you the the censorship board?
"The black soldiers marched side by side with their white comrades in arms to the assault. I tell it with pride to the world, the parapet is 30 feet high. Col. Shaw was the first man to mount that high parapet. He waved his sword and shouted 'COME ON BOYS' and then fell dead. He died well. Neither Greece nor Rome can excel his heroism." - Regimental Surgeon's letter to the Shaw family
+Fang Lei No need to be upset
Fang, it's you're not "your". This is also a place to remember what bravery and unity is truly about, but you sit there on your keyboard, in the comfort of your home, dividing people with your sick language and insinuations. Show some respect for the fallen; those who died for this country.
Just ignore Fang. She's probably a member of the 50 cent army. She doesn't know much about history.
IM Clan very well put !!
@@truthbeyond3624 bullshit. Fuckoff.
Love when Thomas' life was saved by the same combat technique he was shamed by in training.
jackjolli holy shit !
@@totallynotalpharius2283 lol right!!!!! Nice catch!!!!
Ya the one that made him cry and lie on the ground for a couple seconds
Yes the Irish Sarge would have said "Well done Boyo"
@@michaeleverest7631 which of course was the whole point of said training and shaming.
I tear up when Trip raises the flag and dies doing so. The day before, Shaw offered him to be the flag bearer, but refused, saying he wasn't fighting for the flag. Then when Shaw died, the last of his thick skin and tough ego was gone. He realized what the flag might not yet represent, but what Shaw and many who died wanted it to represent. Trip knew such a flag and nation belonged to him also. He knew what he had to do, even at the cost of his own life.
You think that was ego?
You stated this so beautifully. Thank you for that.
Beautifully said, but I wouldn’t say it was “ego.” It was ANGER born from bondage.
@@JonBlockCreations Hilarious.
@@infinitecanadian , what is?
When they charged up that hill, I got chills and goosebumps. They were all heros.
it was awesome
Controllerbreaker I got the chills when Robert died
As well, one must NEVER forget the actions taken by Sgt. William H. Carney who shown extreme bravery under fire at Ft.Wagner....en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Harvey_Carney
@@wwiirebel377 thanks for the link
@@wwiirebel377 Yeah without him, morale probably would’ve broken and they would’ve had to retreat.
Great as this movie was, it did not do justice to the actual soldier portrayed by Denzel Washington. In real life, his name was Sgt. William Carney. In the actual battle, he did pick up the colors when the first color bearer was killed. And like Washington's "Trip," he was shot. But he carried the flag all the way to the top of the wall and held it there. Remember that Union soldier up on the wall of the fort yelling, "Rally!"...? That was Carney. And when the regiment finally withdrew, he came behind them, still under fire, still taking hits, still carrying the flag. White Union soldiers from the 100th NY Regiment, seeing the shape he was in, offered to take it for him; he refused. These were 54th Mass colors, he said, a 54th soldier would bring them back. He was hit again, but wouldn't stop until he made it back to his regiment. All he said was, "The old flag never touched the ground."
For this action, Sgt. Carney became the first Black soldier awarded the Medal of Honor...37 years later. He was never buried in the sand with Col. Robert Shaw. He died in 1908.
Thank you for this snippet of history, it is always a delight to have someone comment in this way outside of the usual "who was better" tirades that fill up the commentary section. Coming from New Zealand, my initial knowledge of the 54th was merely via the movie and over the years it has been interesting to learn more and more about the participants. Cheers.
***** Also true. The Confederates thought this would humiliate the Shaw family; the father's response shut them down. But in its own way, the exchange between the two sides offered some real insight into the very different mentalities of North and South.
Greg Gross Denzel's character of Trip was NOT based on William Carney. His character was a composite character of how 1860's black slaves were. Of the slaves then, most were uneducated and understandably racist... And before you start spouting facts about what Carney did, learn to make it known that you are not trying to claim you were there. Carney COULD HAVE been the 10th soldier to grab the flag or he could have been the 100th.
TheLuvers666 Another neo-Confederate trying to rewrite history. Denzel's character was indeed a composite of characters, one of whom most definitely WAS William Carney. And the *slaves* were racist? You just flushed any credibility you *might* have had.
I never said that William Carney was not an inspiration for the character, I was merely stating that he was not THE William Carney.
As far as the racist thing goes, why would a slave not be racist? And if t hat is too harsh a term for it, fine, how about, at the very least, harboring an inner disdain for those that are oppressing - if not beating - them? Imagine living like an abused animal these days, now try imagining being a slave - repeatedly beaten despite your inhumane work, little to no formal education, no one to call a "loved one" and ZERO hope in the immediate or far distant future of freedom - in 1860's. If people can feel the harshness of slavery despite all the glorious IMPROVEMENTS over the days in the film, imagine what it must have been like when you had to actually go to a well to simply get some water.
In short, black slaves were not lining the streets for the funerals of white people back then. I am next to certain, the black slaves harbored an ill will towards their treatment, leading to their racist - if nothing more than revengeful - ways
An escaped Slave named William Harvey Carney. Was a soldier attached to the 54th Massachusetts regiment and for his gallantry and bravery he was awarded the Medal of Honor for the assault of Ft.Wagner during the civil war and for saving the regimental colors during the battle. That men and many others have shown courage, bravery and heroism by overcoming obstacles. These men were not slaves, these men were soldiers, but more importantly, each and every man regardless of race was a hero. God bless all of them
Shaw had a great arch in this movie. In the beginning we see him cowering when his unit takes fire. Even playing dead. Then by the end he is leading the charge knowing he will likely die.
So many characters had great arcs in this film. Truly a masterpiece
Arc*
@@americandook I really love Colonel Shaw! He was so young, noble and dashing!
@Dick Handy like you never made a typo? Really living up the name there, Dick. Jesus Christ
I don't he was cowering in the Antietam scenes. He might have been in shock as he had just taken some shrapnel.
I met Matt Broadrick at the San Diego Comic Con in 95 and told him I thought he got deprived a leading man Oscar for Glory. It was one of the finest performances he's ever given.
Omg me too I met him in a signing I was 12 and I told him I loved him in glory and said he was the best actor I've ever seen I started to cry and he just smiled at me and hugged me sigh I never washed that shirt again
What’d he say to you?
"Come On!!!!!!" I get chills when that score comes in. Rest in Peace James Horner.
What? James Horner is dead? When did he die?
Truly.
June, 2015.
One of the Greats.
Yeah... He was an incredible composer. Glory, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Aliens, Willow, Titanic... He was my favorite composer behind John Williams and Jerry Goldsmith.
This movie is a masterpiece. It's actually impacted my life. When I was in 5th grade, we wrote letters to soldiers deployed during operation desert shield. I wrote to a soldier wishing my best and talked about how this movie scared me about war. Many years later I was in Baghdad on my first tour as an Infantryman in 2008.
Thank you for your service
@@bruhmoment6986 Thank you for your support.
God Bless you!
I hope all is well in 2021, soldier. Thank you for your service 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Wasn’t worth fighting for men in suits
I love Thomas's scream as he reached the peak of fort Wagner walls. That scream says everything! Pure fear and adrenaline kicking in and just owning that current situation. Just owning it in it's pure moment! A prideful and terrifying scream all at the same time. Just war! Summed up in a scream! War cry!
"Give em hell 54th!"
Interesting how four words can inspire!
TheWinterShadow it was the energy behind it
"give them hell" looks like they did not lol
ROBLOX Gamer gave them hell 54 that make me cry
Mad 1976 um k
One of the best war movies ever.
Rogent X Glory & Saving Private Ryan best war movies ever
Rogent X super underrated as well! Mathew Brodricks performance is superb
Platoon
That's a sad fucking statement...
@@matthewvelez5531 you forgot platoon.
As a student of Civil War tactics, I love the part where the color bearer is yelling "Rally....Rally" meaning look for the colors and merge here. Also Freeman's "Form a firing line right here!" that it was not every man for himself and units looked to get back together even in disjointed chaotic fights like this one. It was not every man on his own.
I always thought he was yelling "Robert" which made no sense.
@@liquid6901 you were not alone in thinking that
@@liquid6901 I thought he was saying "Come on!" repeating what Trip said earlier in the video
@@liquid6901 it would make sense as their commander Robert shaw was just killed
The standard barer was yelling "Robert" no "Rally".
If memory serves correctly this pays homage to one of the men of the 54th who took up the flag and was chanting "ROBERT" during the entire engagement after Shaw died.
Actually, IIRC, "Robert" was the rallying call of the 54th during the battle.
This scene reminded me of this war veteran's story from Argentina, his unit full of 18-20 year olds, were all scared and tired in a cold night after having walked many kilometers and even crossed a stream making them almost entirely soaked, scared of how they were listening to the combat that was going on on top of a hill when they arrived, and how exhausted everyone was.
All of them refused to continue, they just couldn't, until their lieutenant arrived, who shouted "Viva la Patria! Carrera Mar!" (carrera mar is an expression to say "Double march!" commonly used during trainings) and started charging, alone, towards the top of the hill, then, the sergeant, corporal and second lieutenant started running towards there too, and just like that, the whole unit charged to the top, encouraged by them.
It looks like a hero movie scene, but this things actually have happened throughout history.
One of the greatest film scores I've ever heard in my life
Yeah, well that has nothing to do with the score of this film
+Marc L. Pulls this entire scene together. RIP James Horner.
I agree...James Horner is a legend...
+Marc L. Horner did good. He did amazing. It's up there with film scores of all time.
James Horner will always get criticism for lifting classical music for his scores, but I consider this to be one of the best of all time. RIP James
I always tear up at scenes like this. When soldiers are led forward with a final rallying cry into a suicide charge and a sweeping choir plays over them
Throughout the war, no matter how many times the Union tried (white or black regiments) the fort was never taken :(
A powerful and suspenseful moment in the film. God bless the 54th!
One of the best battle scenes I've ever seen in movies. I especially love the music and lighting that make the whole battle seem like some bizarre antechamber of hell.
when that music starts it make you think the union would somehow pull through and win the battle
The fort was abandoned Sept. 7, 1863. Less than two months after the second assault of July 18th. The 54th was garrisoned inside Battery Wagner, now renamed Fort Wagner, before they moved out of Charleston and continued Gen. Gilmore's campaign into Florida. The regiment participated in the Battle of Olustee, Battle of Honey Hill, and Battle of Boykin's Mill.
This is the finest charge ever put to film or TV. Not because of grand scale, but because of the message and overall emotional investment. It’s simply a perfect scene. Start to finish.
Don’t get me started on the score. James Horner was a master and this film alone made him a legend in my book.
That ending moment is like a painting. This movie always leaves me feeling exhausted, as if I fought the battle myself. And the soundtrack is incredible. One of the best Civil War movies ever.
This ending always makes me cry.
NotSoTypical My great great great grand something was a white officer in the 54th. I pretend he's Cary Elwes. He managed to survive. But, if Morgan Freeman (aka god died) I cannot fathom that.
NotSoTypical Same
Me too.
Jason Wilson There's a 3rd white officer there throughout the movie as well, he just never says anything. Maybe your great grand something was him. Right before the charge, he's in front of the line.
Rest in piece, 54th. Your noble sacrifice and service to your country will never be forgotten.
***** Don't feed the Trolls. That being said this scene always breaks my heart, to make it so far and so close, only to be defeated... It's not just the 54th that deserve respect, but every troop who defended the Union, upheld the Federation, and held our nation together. The 54th is but a small piece in the cogs of freedom, but without even one of them, the whole system would fall apart.
Mike Gates How sad, justifying collectivism, trying to force diversity, just sad. Would you define freedom for everyone here, I think we would like to know just what you are talking about, and also to keep you from obfuscating the facts with your statist mouth. The union is a lie, chaos is a ladder, and Yugoslavie turned into an ethnic cleansing bloodbath.
Mike Gates What I hate is that countless lives didn't have to be ended, if only McClellan wasn't so cautious, I sugar coated it..., then the war would've been won much faster. At the siege of Richmond, Virginia, when the defenders charged back, McClellan retreated, even though he outnumbered them by the tens of thousands...
Yeah but it's true
Carcharodon21 they live on in the memory of those who remember their sacrifice
There was not a single bad performance in this movie. Every actor was brilliant.
This is exactly how my mom’s 4 year fight with colon cancer went. She was fighting so hard, we were winning, we were charging and taking hills and then we ran into an impenetrable wall on September 14, 2022. I love you mom, we miss you so much.
Condolences she’s in a better place my friend.
Your mother is a total badass… may she rest in peace. ❤
Same thing happened to my mom. She had two different kinds of cancer that she battled and successfully beat. And then the third one was just too much for her. August 11th, 2021.
I'm sorry you lost your mom as well. Cancer is a horrible beast.
I feel for you. I lost my mother two weeks before you lost yours last year. Greatest pain I’ve ever endured in life. But she died fighting. Just as I’m sure your mother did. Remember her as the person she was, not the one that breathed their final breath on that hospital bed.
@@hisdudeness8328 thanks bud, sorry for your loss.
Greets from Europe. This scene always make me cry..., Freedom has no race, religion or nation, Freedom is for everyone. RIP 54th, and greets to all good women and men around the world.
CroPETROforeverNBA amen brother
Very well said, my friend. My great great great grandfather was a part of the 54th Mass. I remember seeing this movie when I was 12 or 13 and it changed my life. It reminded me that there is such thing as dying for a noble cause, and that cause is freedom from tyranny. Every country, nation, ethnicity should be compelled to defend themselves against the threat of slavery and that's what the 54th represented for all people. God bless you, from Austin, Texas.
God bless you too, and Honour & Human spirit cannot be sold or given, either someone has it or not, and you have it, greets and wish you everythin best. Cheers from Croatia.
CroPETROforeverNBA but what exactly is freedom?
I dont know my friend, I wish I could give you a straight answer on that. I saw many ppl in my life using freedom to such extent they're ruined their lives, ppl out of any control... If I would have to answer you what is freedom truly? well, to me..., It's Honour..., means I couldn't live with somethin which is totally without honour, nevermind is it govermont or person or ppl around me... I would just leave somewhere, or if I would have a chance..., like this ppl from this clip, to die for somethin RIGHT, for somethin you know it's right, somethin which is not written in any manual book for behaviour etc, but what you know deep down is right. Dont know what else to say... I am eternal optimist, when it's most hardest in life and when it's good. Freedom is connected to Honour IMO, not pride, but honour. cheers
I love Cary Elwes running over the top, he kills one guy with a shot from his pistol and guts another with his sword and keeps running.
I liked Morgan Freeman bayonetting some Dixies.
Apologies, I mean God. Yes. God was bayonetting Dixies.
blockmasterscott well he is the dread pirate Roberts for a reason
Well, just what do you expect from the Dread Pirate Roberts?
With Morgan Freeman, I like the end of the clip where he is running down the rampart with the flag behind him. I swear, he was American as apple pie. Great actor, I love him.
I just saw this movie today for a class in college, and i have to say that this whole scene was a damn work of pure cinematic art. The lighting, the visuals, the absolutely marvelous music... This was skin crawling and marvelous to look at when i first saw it and i just HAD to rewind it. It truly felt like it transported you back in time, and placed you right at the very center of the battlefield in that fateful day.
I agree. It felt like you went back in time with your video camera and recorded them right there in action. It's like you almost forget you're watching a movie. Brilliant
4 real! In my opinion this is the best war movie ever made! I cannot see how they could've made the 1st battle of Fort Wagner any better than they did. Absolute master piece and still gives me goosebumps even though i have literally watched this movie over 100 times
this is my favorite scene in the movie, on of my favorite from any war movie. The way the music picks up when Shaw dies, chills every time
ethan hatcher this movie needs to be broadcast on every channel in America and have every nfl player watch it also so they understand why they should stand for the flag
Oh for Christ sakes, fuck off. No need to get political!
ethan hatcher Exactly, no need for NFL players to get political.
ethan hatcher the war was fought over politics
ethan hatcher we weren't fighting for no stinking flag!! We where fighting for true freedom.. Not to be a slave
thank you positive people. i love all of you. our white bros and sis put this video up. remember we will not be divided. i love you all
justice 101 Much love brother!
C Shea no the fort was never taken
The battle was lost, but the 54th inspired tens of thousands of African Americans to join the union cause. Despite being a tactical loss, the battle brought an immense strategic advantage to the union.
We have to remember that we've fought together, bled together. I see so much hate for whites certain blacks these days, just as certain whites continue to broadcast their own hatred. It's so stupid...we've been pushed this direction by the powers that be because we were, a few years ago, closer than ever to finally uniting completely. And that scared them...because once we're united, once the infighting stops, then we can turn our collective attention onto the real problems that face us.
We've always been stronger together.
Alamandorious Well the whites have earned our hatred.
By far the greatest Civil War battle on screen. This scene made me cry buckets. I knew the outcome since I read about the history but I cried just the same. The final mass grave scene is also a tearjerker.
Screw this racism talk in our country. Look what happens when we come together! We are untouchable! GOD BLESS THE U.S.A. 👊
Says someone about a film over a CIVIL WAR....
@Jesus Christ If by come together you mean together in denouncing racism and the evil for which Confederates fought, fine. If you mean attempting to hide the wrongs of the past behind a veneer of togetherness, then fuck that.
I'm with ya all the way!
@@Gepap3 if you don't want to be together than your a piece of shit.
Right on ✊✊✊ brother
3:05 The payoff of Thomas's bayonet training is one of the finest subtle moments in this film.
Absoluty brave men. Just outstanding. I'm honored that their bronze is in DC.
There is a copy here too but yeah, I was drunk af when I wrote that.
Boston, actually, the film shows it under the final credits!All the tourist buses and DUKW's stop in front of it!
oof
When Denzel picked up that flag, the music dropped & infantry 54 just saw their colonel Matthew Broderick die; I still get goosebumps. To this day
I am a 24 yr old black male, I believe we have come a long way though it still saddens me the racism & hate which in today's world. This is a great movie. I don't see color, just trust & character. I hope I am alive to see more change & progress & if not, I'll remain content in waiting.
*Thx "USA" network for playing this film during Black History Month
***** thank u brotha
Melalin is just a pigment that even bacteria and plants have, it means nothing.
You know, those bodies colored and white bodies buried in front of that fort Wagner putrifid the water supply and forced the Confederates to abandon that fort eventually.
It's important to remember this stuff. As well as all of the boys who died from all over fighting for what they believed in. Not 600 yards from my computer is a woman's home who lost four of her sons in a few years time in Union regiments. All volunteers fighting for the north. I'll bet there's anywhere from six to ten people in this entire region who're even aware of that.
ShadomanG Mate as an Aussie I would stand shoulder to shoulder with you if you and my peoples lives depended on it, without hesitation. Count on it...
refugeeca That's astounding to think.. these days 10% casualties is considered a bloodbath in the US Military. In the Civil War 40-50% casualties were the norm. More so in some desperate engagements.
God that ending where the score swells you think it’s gonna end with a victory but they meet their demise which I’m sure happened in many battles throughout history. Just truly tragic.
Remember watching this in public school in 8th grade
It was already my favorite movie. The school was 90%+ minority and all the kids were ragging on the film the first day. The third day we watched the ending. I remember the class was completely silent and alot of kids were wiping away tears by the end of the movie. Everyone got it.
I love the part where Thomas uses the tactic that SGT Mulcahy used on him during training it shows that you may not like your drill SGT during basic but what they do may just save your life
Finally a civil war that isn't southern apologist. I was so nervous seeing this movie expecting it to be featuring good country boys.
Glad it got it right
Trivia fact, Shaw fell into the fort when killed, his men went ballistic and fought like tigers to get him back.
The rest together in a new location after being moved as the battle site was being eroded. His father took immense pride in his son being buried in a grave with his soldiers. Saying his son wouldn't want it any other way.
You want to see a good civil war movie that doesn't whitewash the history or romanticize the conflict? Watch Ride With The Devil, which is told from the SOUTHERN perspective no less. It is my second favourite CW movie, before Cold Mountain and after Glory.
@My Channel The movie need not damn the South as they did that sufficiently themselves. The South damned themselves, with their States' Rights to own SLAVES.
@My Channel lol you would get triggered let me post excerpts from the documents of secession as soon as im done my breakfast... another Southern apologist...
@My Channel The PRIMARY casus belli for the war was the institution of slavery and its preservation from a Southern perspective.
While there are complex factors that led to the outbreak of war, it is simply a fact that the events leading up to Sumter and the ensuing war, which remains to this day the most destructive war in US history, primarily centred around the political movement in the capitol gaining traction since the Revolution, whose goal it was to see the EVENTUAL abolition of states’ rights to hold slaves and the eradication of a slave economy in the Southern States, and their opponents in Congress and elsewhere who sought to uphold the plainly immoral practice. If that assertion is too complicated for you to comprehend then by all means, let us look at the primary sources, in this case the documents of secession, penned by the leaders of the Confederate movement themselves and directed towards the federal government in Washington DC:
Mississippi: ‘Our position is throughly identified with the institution of SLAVERY- the greatest material interest of the world.’
Texas: ‘The SERVITUDE of the African race, as existing in the States is mutually beneficial to bond and free, and is abundantly authorized and justified by the experience of mankind, and revealed will of the Almighty Creator, as recognized by all Christian nations.’
South Carolina: ‘…and have denied the rights of property established in fifteen of the States and recognized by the Constitution; they have denounced as sinful the institution of SLAVERY; they (loyalist states) have permitted open establishment among them of societies, whose avowed object is to disturb the peace and to eloign the PROPERTY of the citizens of other States.’
Georgia: ‘That reason was (the loyalist states’) fixed purpose to limit, restrain, and finally abolish SLAVERY in the Unites States where it exists. The South with great UNANIMITY declared her purpose to resist the principle of prohibition to the LAST EXTREMITY.’
Furthermore, every secessionist declaration mentions Lincoln’s suspected abolitionist disposition, their clear antipathy towards the abolitionist movement at large within the same documents notwithstanding. I could go on but I believe these four entries adequately describe the feelings and policy of the seceding states at the time, and how their eventual commencement of hostilities with the federal government reflects a socio-political and psychological identification with the institution of slavery of those of African descent or African origin. Again, it must be stressed for those who deny it, while SLAVERY is NOT the ONLY reason warfare between North and South broke out and the country descended into brutal civil war, it is the PRIMARY reason, or casus belli. History shows, despite ill-fated attempts to revise it, that the Civil War taken within the context of these documents, could be confidently said to have been fought over the abhorrent institution of slavery and by extension the slave-driven agrarian economy in the Southern States. Any argument that mentions states’ rights or economic issues, haphazardly ignore the fact that these STATES’ RIGHTS were concerning the RIGHT TO OWN HUMAN BEINGS AS PROPERTY, or to protect a cotton trade dependent on SLAVE LABOUR. An attempt to divorce these concepts from the core discourse of the American Civil War is simply an attempt to lie and mislead. Either you have been led astray or you refuse to accept the reality. In either instance I am feel bad for you and I know you can do and be better, especially with how you demonstrate a love of history, which I appreciate. Good day and I wish you all the best.
@My Channel the VP of thr Confederacy literally said the entire idea of succession was the preservation and EXPANSION of slavery. And that anything else is irrelevant by comparison"
So unless we making shit up, you just can't let go of the idea that you fell for the mot disgusting lie of American history. Simple fact is your and I ancestors killed their fellow man to keep people in chains
one of the greatest war scenes in history; the way each character's arc is completed through actions in this scene is superbly written. bravo!
Sad that the monument to these men was vandalized due to the riots currently going on.
The ignorance of some people is just beyond words
The monument is being cleaned and restored as you read this. The damage was not much.
I used to do volunteer work at the state house in Boston, the memorial is literally right across the street from the house. When I learned about it being desecrated I was devastated. I hope they caught the idiots who did it.
@J S you have no idea what you’re talking about you fat piece of shit incel
Was it really thats really fucked up
@J S antifas coming for you bitch 🤣
the end of the movie has a scene where we see Trip/Denzel being rolled into a mass grave, and Shaw/Broderick rolled on top. I always saw it from the perspective that, we are all equal in death.
Apparently, the confederacy usually buried the bodies if officers separately out of respect, but did not for Shaw, in contempt of a white man who lead black soldiers.
After the war, when Shaw's parents visited the fort, they were offered the chance to have his body exhumed so they could repatriate it to their home state. They declined, saying he was surrounded by the men he loved.
That's very true.
Regardless of their background, personality, or race, these men all stood together to fight for the unity and survival of a nation and even more importantly freedom. I couldn't think of anything possibly more heroic then that.
So well said. After this battle the confederates found Shaw amongst the dead and instead of burying him with the officers, they threw him in the trench where the dead Union black soldiers were. They did this as an insult because he led black troops. In the end Shaw wouldn't have wanted it any other way. He would have wanted to be buried with the men that he led into battle. The southerners meant it as an insult, but it ended up being a honor. God bless Shaw. God bless the memory of 54th Mass.
No ones else even got close, hats off 54th. Denzel's Washington's character in real life walked back to camp with 4 bullet holds and the American flag. Got him the Medal of Honor , real patriot.
Henry Meanwell he walked back with the assistance of a member of the NY 100 which would had been a white regiment. I believe that soldier also suffered gun wounds. The sgt never dropped the flag.
@@dougmphilly yep! Several soldiers from other units offered to carry the colors so he could medical assistance and he responded “ these are the 54ths colors the 54th will bring them back”
Stay united American's. Don't let the tiny baying mob destroy you our your amazing country. Remember the sacrifices of the men who gave their last full measure of devotion. Greetings from Ireland. God bless.
Thanks. Greetings from the U.S.
Damn you just reinforced me with your words 🤝🏻✊🏿✊🏻💪🏽
@michael richter You mean the left
@@bkboy8259 Lmao, a couple days after you wrote this Trump incited a riot that attacked our democracy.
Congratulations, you look like an idiot.
@@MrFuzyUnibrow The only idiot here is you. leftists were rioting and looting multiple cities across the country FOR MONTHS, INCLUDING Washington D.C in 2020. The Capitol city was literally on FIRE (just look up the pictures of 2020 riots). Now compare that to ONE DAY (1) of "mostly peaceful protests" that resulted in a few broken windows vs BILLIONS of dollars of damages that happened last summer. Both should be condemn but lets stop pretending that jan 6 was worse than what we saw last year.
And they charged, as men, into the mouth of hell, knowing they would not return, but accepting that they had to be there for there to be change.
Thomas' yell at 1:49 always gave me goosebumps
DonCorleone87 yes!
C'MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNN!!!
And it was also Captain Holt
This is the only movie to make me cry like a baby. After seeing this movie countless time through the years, the end still has me tearing up.
This is one of the greatest scenes of all time. Up there with the final stand off in The good the bad and the ugly.
Does anybody else get chills when Thomas says charge? So powerful
Thomas was my favorite character. He had the largest ark
This film is Braveheart on massive steroids; and might be the best depiction of war ever created. It belongs in the Library of Congress for the ages.
You have to see the movie Gettysburg.
If you want a great depiction of war, watch "All Quiet on the Western Front". It's an amazing movie, covering the massive loss of life in WW1.
But unlike Braveheart it actually had a decent representation of historical events and contemporary clothes.
@@lavrentivs9891 I love Braveheart as great cinema but its a work of fiction. Glory is really on another level entirely while still being as engrossing as Braveheart, if not more so!
I personally like Braveheart better because of my heritage but it’s close. This scene is amazing.
I remember seeing this as a kid and being devastated when I found out they didn't take the fort at the end.
Thats what I love about these movies. The realism. The main character is a hero in other ways.
But the fort was abandoned on sep cuz fearing the fort cannot hold other attack since from bombarment of mixed cannon and battle ship make the defence weaker and containment of water supply cuz of mass grave burial
That short moment at the crescendo as they halt and prepare for the cannon blast is modern work of art. Freeze frame it. Could be one of the greatest bronze sculptures ever made. Cannon fire in the background, flags waving, our heroes standing defiant, frozen for eternity...
Shaw was a great man and he and 54 fought gallantly.
As well gents like this man whom fought there: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Harvey_Carney
@@wwiirebel377 interesting
Watching this in school, the movie credits began to roll, right after the scene showing the Confederate flag over Fort Wagner, the main characters being thrown into a mass grave and the epilogue describing how the fort was never captured during the course of the war. Sure enough, the dumbest person in the class pipes up during the stunned silence. "So like, who won?"
I am not sure what you mean who won. The Confederates won the battle. The Yankees won the war. The Yankees being thrown into the mass grave should have told who won the battle.
LOL. At the state of American education system.
I cried at the end too.
One Cool Black Dued why?
lol i bet
I love that the stuttering man (I forget his name) turned out to be one of the most ruthless yet level-headed fighters in the whole unit. If you pay attention to his actions throughout the movie they spend almost all his scenes developing that in his arc.
“We we ready colonel” great scene I love that character
Jupiter Sharts was his name.
@@kagemaru259 thanks, I had forgotten that.
between the cinematography, the music, the characters all blossoming into their best selves, one of my all time favorite scenes in a movie. You fall in love with every character in this movie.
Matthew Broderick's best movie ever.
truth...
Easily
Hands down
1:50 My favorite part! CHARGEEEEEE! AVENGE HIM!
I agree but the part when he gets shot falls back and dies just the look on there faces
We need this movie to be shown...more then ever now in 2020.
@Marco Polo What's your source?
Every few years, I would re-watch this movie. And everytime, I hope they'd succeed in the end.
The moment the music kicks in as Robert's foot hits the sand.......Right on point. Gives me goosebumps every time.
This battle was a disaster for the 54th and the other larger white regiments attacking the fort. The 54th lost almost half of their 600 men attacking this fort, including their officers. The Civil War was very deadly. They lost the battle, but proved that they made good soldiers.
+Jim Gillgam Sadly casualties over 50% where quite common. The loss expectancy for a regiment that participated in action was 30% for each action. The famous 20th Maine for instance saw participation in seven campaigns and serious action in three. Out of 1,600 soldiers that where assigned to the regiment, 700 would be killed or wounded. 45%. The Iron brigade suffered 75% loses in the first day of Gettysburg alone and they where crack soldiers that had fought in five major actions before they even arrived at Gettysburg. Worse still had been the rate of loss for Confederate regiments, especially late-war.
As terrible as it is, the loses of the 54th was nothing out of the ordinary.
+Naomi Washinton The Texas First had 80% casualties in the Cornfield at Antietam.
And yet this battle gave enough reason to allow for so many other black troops to enlist. And it gave teeth to the Emancipation Proclamation. And the courage of these men put to death the myth that southerners had that black soldiers would turn and run- it proved right out that they were just as good as a white soldier. Fort Wagner might not have been successful, but long term, it was one of the pivotal moments of the war, as well as of African American history in the 19th century. As important as the Proclamation and the passage of the 13th Amendment.
Robert W. Ft Wagner had a choke point, only one regiment at a time could get through. Map link www.battlefields.org/learn/maps/assault-fort-wagner
@@naomiwashinton8102 Indeed. One of my ancestors was in the 1st Minnesota. They suffered around 82% casualties at Gettysburg, but had already been whittled down by casualties in previous battles and of course by disease and the like (put down more men than combat did). They had 28% casualties I think at Antietam and suffered one of the higher casualty rates for Union regiments at 1st Bull Run.
Being a Civil War soldier was potentially deadly business all around.
I see a lot of people commenting how they saw this in 8th grade as a part of history class. I remember being very interested in the civil war during 8th grade and was hoping to see this movie in class.
There were two main history teachers at my school and they both played different civil war movies for their classes. One played Gone With the Wind, and one played Glory. I was stuck in the class who saw 'gone with the wind' and I was PISSED and bored. Saw this movie on my own and loved it since.
Gone With the Wind and Glory should be watched back to back imho. One shows the glamorized south and Glory the real version.
Major Forbes (Elwes) and Sergeant Major Rawlins (Freeman) actually survived the battle in real life. They both made it back to Union lines.
Trip picking up the flag, although he said he didn´t want to, and then almost instantly getting killed :'-(
Yep one of the greatest scenes of the movie. He was clearly the fictional representative in the movie of William Carney, who won the Medal of Honor for doing something quite similar in the real life battle. He survived and IIRC died in 1908.
Matt H actually Morgan Freeman was based off of him
I think he realises he's not picking up the flag to show respect to the "white men" he's picking up the flag to show respect to all his black and white brothers in the 54th. 👍
Jacob Kelly Sgt Carny made a appearance in the film.
Man, what a beautiful scene. This and Gettysburg did the Civil War damn good justice.
Wasn't until someone brought to my attention that Thomas dodging the Confederate soldier's bayonet, taking the rifle, knocking him down and stabbing him was exactly like the Drill Instructor had some to him earlier in the movie...showing he actually learned from it.
RIP Andre Braugher
And they’re here in mass defacing they monument to the 54th.
Such a shame..defacing a monument dedicated to heroes who fought for their well deserved freedom.
They definitely they need to leave the union statues alone. I couldn't care less, however, about defacing confederate monuments. Those guys were traitorous losers, nothing more.
shut up
Motherfucking Cocksucking Magnificent it’s that attitude is why the 54th monument was defaced. It’s either honor for all or none
@@tildenkatz5581 you're a silly goose
The music for this scene is amazing. R.I.P. James Horner
I miss him more than I can enunciate.
One of the greatest movies ever made. Seriously. An amazing movie on so many levels.
My favorite movie. Just because of the perfection of this scene. Denzel shouting at them before getting shot and them charging always sends goosebumps down my spine
I saw this in the theaters and it was incredible on the big screen. This final moment in the movie brought me to tears and I remember my girlfriend at the time, looking over at me and asked me "Are you crying? This is what you cry at, a war movie?" I told her "You dont understand, our country was split in half, we were fighting ourselves, these were are all Americans dying and killing each other."
This one of the best soundtrack for a War film.
R.I.P. JAMES HORNER
first time I seen this it did make me cry a little bit but ya it's still a great Civil War Battle Scene
Same.
The score mixed with the fact that even though they got up and over they still lost made me cry the first time as wel
Outside of Saving Private Ryan, this is the most historically accurate war based movie in my opinion.
Just a heart wrenching scene, the brave men of the 54th charged Fort Wagner knowing that they were facing almost certain death. A charge that should have never been made because the confederates were dug in and the fort was only accessible from one side. That made no difference to the 54th regiment, their nobility will live on forever.
"Come on, 54th!"
Chills everytime.
@@wanekiacook9257 Undoubtedly. They fought, conquered and died to make all men free.
@@TheVoiceOfReason93 Amen.
30 years later and this movie still gives me chills!! Truly an epic film!!!
It’s just not fair, that after all that, the Confederates held on to the fort, even after two other battalions stormed it after the 54th Regiment. War is a real bitch.
God bless the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, nor their bravery, nor will their place in history. 🇺🇸
The 54th got the last laugh. The Confederates buried them too close to their own underground water supply and the bodies poisoned the water. They had to abandoned Wagner or risk dehydration when Sherman started closing in. The 54th won from beyond the grave.
folklore19 😱 I never knew this and my spirits are forever lifted 🙏🏻❤️👌🏻
@@folklore19 That's not true. They abandoned the fort after 60 days because of constant bombardment, lack of provisions and the close Union trenches. If the water supply was poisoned they wouldn't have lasted 60 days.
Correct, and as you said war is a real bitch.
The Confederates held on the fort because they were equally as resilient and sat there for 60 days under constant bombardment
I watched this in my 8th grade history class.
Terrific movie!
I swear, they all did such a good job, Denzel Washington, Mathew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, Cary Elwes. I cannot praise them highly enough in this film.
The greatest movie about slavery and one of the greatest war movies ever
I first watched this in my history class and I absolutely loved this movie. The final battle was sad, but the music made it epic.
R.I.P 54th, you will always be remembered.
Still has to be one of the greatest moments of any war film!
Today is the day that these man charged that fort and fought the men that had once enslaved them.
Actually you're not really right. The people who had once enslaved many of them, were extremely wealthy and were able to essentially buy their way out of having to fight. They either paid a few hundred dollars, or they could volunteer a number of their slaves to go fight in lieu of their owners.The Confederates you see fighting in these battles, are some of the poorest southerners there were. They couldn't afford to buy their way out with money or slaves to give.
I cried when I saw this at the movies when I was 9 years old....and I’m crying now. Not just sadness...but pride. I’m so proud of the 54th
Still one of my favorite movies of all time. Still sad with how it ended
Sometimes winning isn't the point. Sometimes making a stand for what you believe is.
Gurney Monkey Bronies and abolitionists have a lot in common when you really think about it though.
Izumi Oh, what's that delightful sound? I think it's the sad mewlings of someone begging to get blocked!
Your profile pic is so silly but your comment is so deeply serious. This is exactly it
@@Nightweaver1: Unfortunately many don't share that commonality as both sides fought for what they perceived just.
Yes. Standing up for believing in a illegal invasion on the south. Using slavery as a moral booster after getting your ass kicked. Then telling history as if the reason the south fought was to keep slavery and not because 80% of the country's taxes came from the south and was used for the north. Not talking about how European countries wouldn't trade with slave owning states so slavery was going to end anyway and that most of the south did not own slaves. My family released theirs 28 years before the war. Then the north used black troops as fodder after this battle so their white troops didn't have to die as much. Fight for believing lies people tell you
Go for it.
Who agrees if this choirs is the best battling sound track yet?
The U.S. lost the battle of Ft. Wagner, but we won in the end, thanks to brave men like this.
IDK all Americans are brave the CSA’s lose was because of logistics they simply couldn’t buy as many weapons or immigrants as the Union could, in the end when both sides are the same ppl from the same nation it all comes down to logistics.
@@davidr1037 While you're right, the North could have easily lost the war due to dwindling support. New York and other notable cities rioted because they did not want to get drafted to fight a country that just wanted to be left alone. And also the Trent Affair, if it went wrong it would have sparked Great Britain and possibly France to intervene and assist the South, which is bad news for the North. Many ways the North could've lost it.
@@iplyrunescape305 any way you look at it the whole affair was simply sad most Civil Wars are though.
@@davidr1037 all wars. Even the Emu one
@@davidr1037 Makes the CSA even more stupid for attacking the USA in the first place. Not only because they wanted to keep slavery and spread it to other states while most countries abolished it, but also for going up against a more powerful enemy that they only had a small chance of winning against.
Teacher: Class we’re taking a trip to Fort. Wagner in South Carolina.
Girls: I heard there are nice beaches there! I bet I can get a nice tan!
Boys:
" guys ..guys..we have a regular entrance now you don't have to storm the."
Boys: COME ON 54TH
The movie was shot in the Georgia. It's called Glory Beach.
Steffen M. The sea took fort Wagner over it’s not there anymore the bodies of these great people are in Beaufort sc headstones are marked unknown
*RALLY! RALLY!*
Foley Beach has the best bars in the Charleston area
There will never be a more powerful and intense closing scene ever again in cinema history. What a scene, the intensity makes you feel like you are charging the mound with them.