Was D.W. Griffith a Racist? An Analysis of His Legacy and Impact

Questions about the controversial figures from our history persist, and one name frequently pops up in discussions of early film and its impact on societal perceptions is D.W. Griffith. This article delves into the complex legacy of D.W. Griffith, exploring his involvement in making the film Born of a Nation (1915) and addressing misconceptions prevalent in today's cultural discussions. We will also explore the on-screen portrayals of race in Griffith's work and the nuanced perspective of leading American actress Lucille Ball.

The Controversy Surrounding D.W. Griffith

The title of Born of a Nation, which premiered in 1915, has sparked controversy and raised questions about D.W. Griffith's views on race. The film's portrayal of African Americans is widely criticized for associating them with ignorance, violence, and inferiority. This portrayal aligns with the KKK narrative, which Griffith himself was known to support, leading many to label Griffith as a racist.

Was He Really a Racist?

It's important to consider the context in which D.W. Griffith worked. Born in 1875, Griffith lived during a time when overt racism and segregation were prevalent, a period when the derogatory term "Negro" was commonplace. Many individuals, even those opposing racism, maintained a level of discretion to avoid conflict or ostracization.

For instance, when producer and character actor Ernest T. Gone with the Wind's producer initially raised concerns about having Black actors on the show. The fear of backlash was palpable. Many actors and crew members, including Andy Griffith, were reluctant to cause a rift in the cast, thus opting for inaction. This does not necessarily mean that Griffith or those around him were racists, but rather, they were gripped by the societal and professional norms of the era, which often stifled dissenting voices.

The Impact of His Films

Despite the controversy surrounding Born of a Nation, Griffith's work also included an attempt to challenge negative stereotypes. For example, in episodes of the popular TV series The Andy Griffith Show, which Griffith starred in, he made an effort to depict African Americans in a more nuanced and respectful manner. While the characters were often limited to supporting roles, like Gomer Pyle and Little Jimmy, Griffith's intention to include them at all is noteworthy. This effort, while underwhelming to modern standards, was a significant step towards more inclusive representation.

Griffith's Other Contributions

In his later years, Griffith made a film called Intolerance (1916), which grappled with and sought to address the criticisms faced by Born of a Nation. Griffith's defense was articulated in the film's introduction, stating that he had nothing to apologize for and that he had aimed to educate the audience about the injustices of the past.

One of the most poignant depictions in Intolerance is the scene in which white men put on blackface to depict Black men as murderers and rapists, while the KKK are portrayed as heroes. This critique highlights the stark realities of the period and makes Griffith's advocacy for a more nuanced portrayal of race more impactful. Critics argue that despite his attempt to portray a more balanced narrative, the underlying themes in Intolerance still reflect a problematic perspective on race.

The Perspective of Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball, a beloved actress and comedian who starred in numerous television shows, offers a unique perspective on Griffith's work. She reflects on the early days of television, affectionately remembering her role on The Andy Griffith Show and the impact of characters like Sheriff Andy Taylor and Deputy Barney Fife. While Ball supports Griffith's contributions to the television industry, she acknowledges the limitations of early television in addressing racial issues. She argues that Griffith was more a TV star, whose control over the narrative was limited by the other stars in the cast.

In conclusion, the legacy of D.W. Griffith is complex. While his film Born of a Nation perpetuated offensive stereotypes, his later efforts, particularly in Intolerance, demonstrate a willingness to address and challenge societal prejudices. Similarly, Griffith's work on The Andy Griffith Show represents a small but significant attempt to include diverse voices, all within the constraints of a time and culture that often silenced racial justice advocates. As we continue to evaluate historical figures, it is crucial to understand the context in which they lived and the limitations of their actions.