The Clansman: An Historical Romance of the Ku Klux Klan [Clansmen]

374, [4] pp. 8vo. Inspiration for the 1915 film. Illustrations by Arthur Keller, which are somewhat notorious, as many believe they partially inspired the uniforms of the Ku Klux Klan. The Birth of a Nation (premiered with the title The Clansman) is a 1915 silent film directed by D. W. Griffith. Set during and after the American Civil War, the film was based on Thomas Dixon's The Clansman, a novel and play. The Birth of a Nation is noted for its innovative camera techniques and narrative achievements, and its status as the first Hollywood blockbuster. It has provoked great controversy for promoting white supremacy and positively portraying the Ku Klux Klan as heroes. It is also notable as the first film to be screened in the White House, during Woodrow Wilson's administration (though Wilson later distanced himself from it).