ALL AMERICAN NEWS - WWII AFRICAN AMERICAN NEWSREEL RACIAL INTEGRATION OF AMERICAN INDUSTRY

Series: ALL AMERICAN NEWS

Description: You're watching something few people got to see during WWII -- a special African American newsreel made by and for African Americans. The story behind this begins in November 1942 when producer E.M. Glucksman founded All American News of Chicago, Illinois. The company began releasing newsreels showcasing the lives of America's African Americans, including showing their contributions to the WWII war effort. The newsreels were shown only in African American movie theaters (and did not get shown in all of them -- the nation had 451 segregated theaters in 1943, and these newsreels were shown in 365 of them) .


This newsreel highlights the contributions and progress of African Americans during World War II and in civilian life. It opens with a discussion on the improving vocational opportunities for Black workers and growing racial integration in American industry. A segment on ceramics showcases university students mastering the art of pottery. The film then features Mr. Fman, President Roosevelt’s valet, who recounts accompanying the President on major wartime diplomatic missions. Light-hearted moments include a popular bear named Mike in Memphis who entertains children. The film shifts to the Anzio beachhead in Italy, showing Allied troops maintaining supply lines under fire. Finally, it spotlights Tuskegee Institute's commitment to physical education and athletic excellence, highlighting champions like Alice Coachman and William Puroy. Together, these vignettes portray resilience, talent, and growing recognition for African Americans across multiple spheres.






00:00 – A discussion featuring prominent Black leaders explores how vocational opportunities for African Americans are expanding, particularly in integrated work environments like Louisville. Optimism is expressed about post-war racial equality in industry.

2:10 – Ceramics and clay modeling gain popularity, with university students learning the craft. The process includes mixing, kneading, shaping, firing, and glazing to create functional and artistic pottery.

3:45 – Mr. Fman, valet to President Roosevelt, shares his experiences accompanying the President on historic wartime trips, including meetings with world leaders like Stalin and Madame Chiang Kai-shek. His wife expresses pride in his role.

5:11 – A segment introduces Mike, a bear in Memphis, beloved by children for his antics. He’s known for waving to visitors in exchange for peanuts and has become a local celebrity.

5:54 – Scenes from the Anzio beachhead in Italy show the aftermath of an air raid and the quick recovery of Allied forces. Supply lines are maintained under threat, showcasing the resilience of U.S. troops.

7:03 – At Tuskegee Institute, physical education is mandatory, emphasizing fitness as key to academic and personal success. Athletes like William Puroy and Alice Coachman, national champions in track and field, exemplify the school’s excellence in sports.

Online Copy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo6N-dwUmBg

Metadata Source:YouTube