Ralph Bunche: An American Odyssey
117 minutes, 2001 , United States
Producer/Director: William Greaves
Dr. Ralph Johnson Bunche (1903-1971) was a statesman, peace negotiator, leading intellectual and scholar, and the first person of color to win the Nobel Peace Prize. An African American who overcame racial prejudice and poverty to become Undersecretary General of the United Nations, Bunche's life offers a unique window on many key issues and historical events that took place during the middle of the 20th century. This award-winning two-hour documentary film, narrated by Sidney Poitier, tells the story of his life and times.
Bunche was a political scientist, educator and civil rights activist during the 1930s. He played a key role in the founding of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1946. In 1949, he successfully mediated four Middle East Armistice agreements for which he received the 1950 Nobel Peace Prize. Bunche devoted the last 25 years of his life to the United Nations, working in the areas of de-colonization and international peacekeeping.
Teaching Strategies
Educational Resources
ABOUT WILLIAM GREAVES
A director, producer, actor and writer, William Greaves' films have won over seventy international film festival awards including an Emmy. He served as executive producer and co-host of the pioneering 1960s network television series Black Journal. His complete filmography reveals that he has been one of the most prolific and eloquent African American voices in the media over the past three decades. For more information visit www.williamgreaves.com.
Bunche was a political scientist, educator and civil rights activist during the 1930s. He played a key role in the founding of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1946. In 1949, he successfully mediated four Middle East Armistice agreements for which he received the 1950 Nobel Peace Prize. Bunche devoted the last 25 years of his life to the United Nations, working in the areas of de-colonization and international peacekeeping.
Teaching Strategies
Educational Resources
ABOUT WILLIAM GREAVES
A director, producer, actor and writer, William Greaves' films have won over seventy international film festival awards including an Emmy. He served as executive producer and co-host of the pioneering 1960s network television series Black Journal. His complete filmography reveals that he has been one of the most prolific and eloquent African American voices in the media over the past three decades. For more information visit www.williamgreaves.com.
Ways to Watch
Educational Streaming
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Community Screening
Short-term use for small groups, organizations, or high school classes (under 100 participants, where no admission is charged).
Home Viewing
48-hour, personal rental for in-home use only, restrictions apply