American revolution lacrosse. The Lacrosse Game That Sparked the American Revolution: A Historical Analysis

How did a Native American lacrosse game influence the American colonies to revolt against Great Britain. What was the significance of Fort Michilimackinac in the context of the American Revolution. Why did the Royal Proclamation of 1763 anger many colonists.

The Origins of Lacrosse: America’s Oldest Sport

Lacrosse, often overlooked in favor of more popular American sports, holds a unique place in the nation’s history. This ancient game, invented by Native Americans long before European contact, has played a surprising role in shaping the course of American history. But how did this sport come to be, and what was its significance in Native American culture?

Native American tribes across North America had their own versions of the game, each with distinct names and cultural significance:

• Onondaga: “dehuntshigwa’es” (men hit a rounded object)
• Eastern Cherokee: “da-nah-wah’uwsdi” (little war)
• Ojibwe: “baaga`adowe” (bump hips)

The modern name “lacrosse” was bestowed by French observers, who noted the similarity between the players’ sticks and the crosiers carried by Catholic priests. This name eventually became widely adopted, reflecting the cultural exchange and influence of European colonization on Native American traditions.

Traditional Lacrosse: A Far Cry from Modern Play

Early lacrosse games differed significantly from the sport we know today. These matches served multiple purposes within Native American societies:

• Settling disputes between tribes
• Training warriors
• Celebrating festivals
• Recreational enjoyment

The scale of these games was often massive, with teams comprising anywhere from 100 to 1,000 players. Fields could stretch up to six miles in length, creating a spectacle that was as much a test of endurance as it was of skill. The objective was to touch the ball to the opposing team’s goal, typically a tall stick or tree.

Unlike modern lacrosse, these early games emphasized direct confrontation. Dodging opponents or passing the ball was considered cowardly, leading to a more physical and violent style of play. This intensity and cultural significance drew the attention of British colonists, who often watched and bet on these games, despite disapproval from the royal crown.

Pontiac’s War: The Prelude to Revolution

The year 1763 marked a turning point in North American history, setting the stage for events that would ultimately lead to the American Revolution. The conclusion of the French and Indian Wars left many Native American tribes dissatisfied with the new British dominance in the region. Why did this shift in power dynamics cause such discontent among the Native populations?

The key lies in the differing approaches of the French and British colonizers:

• French colonizers tended to establish friendly trade relationships with Native tribes
• British settlers often sought to expand their territory at the expense of Native lands

This stark contrast in colonial strategies led to widespread resentment towards the British among Native American communities. The response to this growing tension manifested in what became known as Pontiac’s War or Pontiac’s Rebellion.

The Native American Offensive

Pontiac’s War saw Native warriors from various tribes uniting with the common goal of expelling British forces from the Great Lakes region. Their strategy focused on capturing British forts through surprise attacks. Between May 16 and June 2, 1763, Native forces successfully overtook five British fortifications:

1. Fort Sandusky (modern-day Venice, Ohio)
2. Fort St. Joseph (modern-day Niles, Michigan)
3. Fort Miami (modern-day Fort Wayne, Indiana)
4. Fort Ouiatenon (modern-day Lafayette, Indiana)
5. Fort Michilimackinac (modern-day Mackinaw City, Michigan)

The capture of these forts represented a significant blow to British control in the region. However, it was the fall of Fort Michilimackinac that would prove to be the most consequential, both in terms of military strategy and its impact on the broader colonial narrative.

The Trojan Horse of Fort Michilimackinac

On June 2, 1763, the Ojibwe tribe, also known as the Chippewa, executed a brilliant strategic maneuver that would go down in history as one of the most cunning military deceptions of the colonial era. Their target was Fort Michilimackinac, the largest and most important British stronghold in the region. How did a simple game of lacrosse become the key to capturing this formidable fortification?

The Ojibwe’s plan was reminiscent of the ancient Greek tale of the Trojan Horse. They proposed a friendly game of lacrosse to be played outside the fort’s walls, inviting the British soldiers and traders to watch. This seemingly innocuous invitation masked a deadly intent.

The Game That Changed History

As the lacrosse match unfolded, the British spectators were drawn into the excitement of the game. Little did they know that the Ojibwe women, positioned near the fort’s entrance, concealed weapons beneath their blankets. At a predetermined signal, the players abandoned their game and rushed towards the fort. In a matter of moments, the scene transformed from a sporting event into a military assault.

The British, caught completely off guard, were quickly overwhelmed. The fort fell into Native hands with minimal resistance, dealing a significant blow to British prestige and control in the region. This clever use of lacrosse as a tool of warfare demonstrated the ingenuity of Native American tactics and the power of cultural knowledge in military strategy.

The Royal Proclamation of 1763: A Catalyst for Colonial Discontent

In the wake of Pontiac’s War and the loss of several key forts, including Fort Michilimackinac, the British government took decisive action. The Royal Proclamation of 1763 was issued, aiming to stabilize relations with Native American tribes and assert control over colonial expansion. However, this proclamation would have far-reaching consequences that its authors likely never anticipated.

The key provisions of the Royal Proclamation included:

• Prohibition of British settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains
• Establishment of a boundary line between colonial and Native territories
• Requirement for all land purchases from Native Americans to be made by the crown, not individuals or colonies

While these measures were intended to pacify Native American concerns and prevent further conflict, they had the unintended effect of angering many colonists. Why did this proclamation provoke such a strong reaction among the settler population?

Colonial Grievances and Growing Tensions

The Royal Proclamation of 1763 touched upon several sensitive issues for the American colonists:

1. Land Scarcity: With a growing population, the prohibition on westward expansion limited opportunities for new settlements and economic growth.
2. Economic Restrictions: The requirement for crown approval of land purchases hampered individual and colonial economic initiatives.
3. Lack of Representation: The proclamation was issued without colonial input, highlighting the lack of American representation in British government decisions.
4. Perceived Overreach: Many colonists viewed the proclamation as an unjust interference in colonial affairs by a distant government.

These grievances, born from the aftermath of a Native American uprising and a game of lacrosse, would contribute significantly to the growing tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain. The seeds of revolution were being sown, with the Royal Proclamation of 1763 serving as a crucial catalyst in the chain of events leading to the American Revolution.

The Ripple Effect: From Lacrosse to Revolution

The capture of Fort Michilimackinac through the ingenious use of a lacrosse game set in motion a series of events that would have profound implications for the future of North America. How did this single incident contribute to the broader narrative of colonial discontent and eventual revolution?

The fall of Fort Michilimackinac, along with other British forts, exposed vulnerabilities in British colonial control. This perceived weakness necessitated a response from the British government, resulting in the Royal Proclamation of 1763. The proclamation, intended as a solution to Native American grievances, inadvertently became a major source of colonial discontent.

The Path to Revolution

The chain of events following the lacrosse game at Fort Michilimackinac contributed to the American Revolution in several key ways:

1. Increased Colonial Resentment: The restrictions imposed by the Royal Proclamation fueled existing tensions between the colonies and Great Britain.
2. Economic Pressures: Limitations on westward expansion and land acquisition hindered colonial economic growth, leading to increased frustration with British rule.
3. Political Awakening: The lack of colonial input in the proclamation highlighted the need for American representation in British government, a key rallying cry of the revolution.
4. Cultural Identity: The incident underscored the growing divide between British and colonial interests, contributing to the development of a distinct American identity.

While it would be an oversimplification to claim that a single lacrosse game directly caused the American Revolution, it’s clear that this event played a significant role in the complex tapestry of colonial history. The ingenuity of the Ojibwe tribe in using their cultural traditions as a military tactic had far-reaching consequences that its participants could never have imagined.

Lacrosse: A Symbol of Cultural Resistance and Identity

The use of lacrosse as a means of military deception at Fort Michilimackinac highlights the profound cultural significance of the sport to Native American tribes. Beyond its role in this historical event, how has lacrosse continued to serve as a symbol of Native American identity and resistance?

Throughout the centuries following European colonization, lacrosse remained an important part of Native American culture. It served as a means of preserving traditions, strengthening community bonds, and asserting cultural identity in the face of assimilation pressures.

The Evolution of Lacrosse in American Culture

As the sport evolved and gained popularity among non-Native players, it underwent significant changes:

• Standardization of rules and field sizes
• Introduction of protective equipment
• Development of different versions (field lacrosse, box lacrosse, women’s lacrosse)
• Inclusion in school and college athletic programs

Despite these changes, many Native American communities continue to play traditional versions of the game, maintaining a connection to their ancestral practices. The enduring legacy of lacrosse serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of North America’s indigenous peoples and their ongoing influence on the continent’s history and identity.

The Intertwining of Sport and Politics in American History

The role of lacrosse in the events leading to the American Revolution is just one example of the complex relationship between sports and politics in American history. How have other sporting events influenced the course of American political and social development?

Throughout U.S. history, sports have often served as a mirror for broader societal issues and a platform for political expression:

• Jesse Owens’ four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, challenging Nazi ideologies of racial supremacy
• The “Miracle on Ice” hockey victory over the Soviet Union at the 1980 Winter Olympics, boosting American morale during the Cold War
• Colin Kaepernick’s national anthem protests in the NFL, bringing attention to racial injustice and police brutality

These examples demonstrate how sports can transcend their role as mere entertainment, becoming powerful vehicles for social change and political commentary. The lacrosse game at Fort Michilimackinac stands as an early instance of this phenomenon, illustrating how a sporting event can have far-reaching consequences beyond the field of play.

The Lasting Impact of Sports on American Identity

The influence of sports on American culture and identity extends beyond individual events. Many aspects of American life have been shaped by sporting traditions:

1. Military Technology: The design of American hand grenades was influenced by the shape of baseballs, capitalizing on the throwing skills ingrained in American youth through baseball.
2. Diplomacy: Sports have often been used as a tool for international diplomacy, with events like the “Ping Pong Diplomacy” between the U.S. and China in the 1970s.
3. Social Integration: Sports have played a crucial role in breaking down racial barriers, as exemplified by Jackie Robinson’s integration of Major League Baseball.
4. National Character: The values emphasized in sports, such as teamwork, fair play, and perseverance, have become integral to the American national character.

The story of the lacrosse game at Fort Michilimackinac and its role in the lead-up to the American Revolution serves as a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked connections between sports, culture, and politics. It demonstrates how a simple game can become a catalyst for significant historical events, shaping the course of nations and the identities of peoples.

Did A Game of Lacrosse Lead To The American Revolution? — Innovative History

In 1763, the British Government laid out the Royal Proclamation of 1763 upon the American Colonies. This proclamation forbade any settlement of British citizens west of the Appalachian Mountains. With a growing population, a lack of land, and no voice in the British Government this proclamation angered many colonists and is often cited as one of the main reasons for the American Revolution. But how did a lacrosse game influence the colonies to revolt against Great Britain?

Bryant Holt

As you know, the tradition of sports in America is as much a part of our historic tradition as anything. We can point back to some of the most significant events regarding sports and how they shaped history of the time. Think about iconic events like Jesse Owens winning 4 gold medals in the 1936 Olympics in Germany during the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich, or the 1980 Miracle on Ice during the Cold War, or even the fact that American grenades are shaped like baseballs, because hey, every kid in America should know how to throw a baseball. With the popularity of football, baseball, and basketball, some sports seem to get pushed by the wayside; however America’s oldest sport, lacrosse, is starting to gain momentum and popularity. You’ve seen the sport, or maybe even played it as a kid, but did you know that a single lacrosse game actually had a huge impact on the history of America? I’ll get to that momentarily, but first let me give you a quick background about lacrosse.

Lacrosse was invented by Native Americans sometime before European contact. Different versions of the game could be found across North America, but its popularity was greater in the eastern Woodlands and Great Plains Regions. Most tribes had their own names for the game, with some examples being: dehuntshigwa’es, which means “men hit a rounded object” in Onondaga; da-nah-wah’uwsdi which means “little war” in Eastern Cherokee (“little war”), or even baaga`adowe which means “bump hips” in Ojibwe (The Ojibwe people also happen to be the tribe that we will be focusing on in this article). Eventually, the French gave “Lacrosse” its modern name, likely because the way the Natives carried their sticks reminded the French of how Catholic priests carried “The Cross,” hence — “La Crosse.” Over time, the name stuck. Early lacrosse games were a little different from what we are used to seeing today. Often times, two tribes would play each other to settle disputes, toughen their warriors, as part of festivals, or simply for recreation. These games often saw as many as 100-1000 men between the two teams and the fields could range from about 500 yards to 6 miles long (that’s quite a long run). The goal would be to try and get the ball to touch your opponents goal, which was typically a tall stick or tree. With so many men per team, most games ended up looking more like a giant rugby scrum than the lacrosse games we see today. Furthermore, it was considered cowardly to dodge an opponent or to pass the ball, so the games were likely a lot more violent. 

British colonists took an interest in Native American lacrosse games, and often enjoyed watching and betting on the games, even though this was highly frowned upon by the royal crown. This is exactly what happened on a fateful day in 1763. This year marked the end of the French-Indian Wars in North America and many Indian tribes were upset that the British had pushed out their French allies during the war. The French tended to befriend and trade with Native Americans, whereas the British tended to try and take and settle the Native American’s land. Needless to say, the Natives were overwhelmingly unhappy with the British as this time. In response to the disdain for the British, a movement broke out amongst Native Americans residing in the Great Lakes Region. It was known as Pontiac’s War, or Pontiac’s Rebellion. Native warriors from many tribes joined together in an attempt to drive the British out of the region. To accomplish this, these Natives started trying to take over British forts all across the region. Between May 16 and June 2, 1763, Natives were able to capture 5 British forts through surprise attacks. These forts included:

– Fort Sandusky (modern day Venice, Ohio)

– Fort St. Joseph (modern day Niles, Michigan)

– Fort Miami (moder day Wayne, Indiana)

– Fort Ouiatenon (modern day Lafayette, Indiana)

– Fort Michilimakinac (modern day Mackinaw City, Michigan)

The final of these forts was the largest and most important fort and also brought the most humiliation to the British. 

On June 2, 1763, the Ojibwe (commonly referred to as Chippewa) tribe pulled off a Trojan Horse-esque maneuver on Fort Michilmakinac. The tribe staged a traditional lacrosse game in front of the fort, or as they called it baaga`adowe or “bumping hips,” and boy did they ever bump some hips in this game. They invited another tribe, the Sauks, to be their opponent. They even sent a friendly invitation to the British garrison at Fort Michilimakinac to join them in watching the game and betting on the outcome. The Ojibwe even went so far as to say that the game would be in honor of King George III’s upcoming birthday! The British commander in charge of the fort, Major Etherington, was pleased by the invitation and so he and his men watched the game from the nearby fort. Each of the tribes put over 100 warriors on their teams and began to play the game. The women of the tribes gathered in front of the fort to watch. Caught up in the action, the British garrison never closed the gate to the fort. As the game went on, the ball eventually found its way through the gate of the fort. As the warriors laid chase, the women of the tribe quickly pulled tomahawks and knives from under their clothes and baskets and handed them off as the warriors ran through the fort gate. The warriors laid siege to the fort, capturing it and killing almost every British soldier and colonist inside. They left the French citizens unharmed. They held the fort for almost a year, but eventually Pontiac’s War ended in a stalemate. However, the Native Americans were able to gain one major victory through the outcome of the war. The British government had been considering a Proclamation that would keep colonists from settling in the western British territories of America. Pontiac’s War hastened this decision and likely had an impact on the British Royal Proclamation of 1763. As I mentioned at the beginning, this proclamation was one of the major grievances that led to the American Revolution.

So, ultimately a single lacrosse game led to the American Revolution!!! Ok, so that’s probably a stretch, but perhaps this Trojan Horse Lacrosse game did have an impact on the decision for the American colonists to revolt. Either way, next time you see a violent collision in a lacrosse game I hope you remember that lacrosse games used to be a lot more violent back in the old days.

Enjoy this Article?

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Native Americans, Deception!, Weird Wars, SportsBryant HoltDecember 29, 2016Native Americans, History of lacrosse, Deadliest lacrosse game2 Comments

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Black Wolves assisting the NLL’s American Revolution — Lacrosse Flash

In April of 1777, American colonists of the Continental Army fought valiantly in The Battle of Ridgefield (Connecticut) as part of the ongoing American Revolutionary War. While this particular battle is considered a victory for the British, the effort put forth by the Americans was driven by the ultimate desire for independence, freedom and the pursuit of a better future.

Nearly 250 years later, approximately 100 miles east of Ridgefield in Uncasville, Connecticut, the New England Black Wolves are playing an unintended — but highly consequential — part in another American revolution. 

This time around, freedom or independence is not at stake. However, more and more American field lacrosse players see that adding the Canadian box lacrosse-style to their repertoire could lead them to a brighter, more lucrative future. 

Of course, Americans taking up the Canadian box game is not a new concept. Since the early years of the NLL, Americans have been drafted and played roles on some of the league’s first franchises. Although, there has been a resurgence in recent years as both Canadians and Americans are making a concerted effort to learn each other’s styles.

In the 2020 NLL Entry Draft, the Black Wolves selected three prominent American field lacrosse players in Charlie Kitchen, Michael Sowers and Grant Ament. The three men are well-known, highly-touted NCAA Division I lacrosse talents, yet, only Kitchen has any true, albeit very brief, experience playing the box game. Coincidentally, Kitchen was coached by the same man that will soon lead him on the Black Wolves, Glenn Clark, when he played for the OJALL’s Toronto Beaches. 

Photo: Delaware Athletics

If there’s one man who can help craft American field lacrosse studs into All-Pro NLL stars, it would be Team Canada’s box lacrosse skipper, Coach Clark. Having worked with Americans on his NLL rosters of the past few years, including Kevin Buchanan, Greg Downing and Joe Nardella, to name a few, Clark knows what it takes to convert their gifts to suit the game he knows best.

“The talent is there,” Clark said. “You’re not teaching a different set of skills; you’re just teaching a different game. A lot of the American players are world-class athletes. If they can understand the game and bring that level of athleticism and skill to the box game, you can really have something there. We’ve seen that with several American players over the years and continuing now.”

However, even if the skill and knowledge are there, the transition can be daunting; handfuls of American field lacrosse players who are now in the NLL have admitted such. There are heightened levels of physicality, quickness, precision etc. needed to excel in the box game. Learning how to do all of that will take handwork and dedication, but it can be done if the player is willing to commit the time and mental energy to mastering the box game.

One of the NLL’s budding stars is Matt Rambo. He and his equally famous and gifted teammate, Trevor Baptiste, both had similar moments of realization when they got their first reps in the box. Rambo recalled how unfamiliar, challenging and confusing his initial experiences were, but, as we know, he’s come out on the other end a more complete and lethal lacrosse player.

“When I went into training camp, it was a world of difference,” Rambo said. “The space is so much tighter, you have to shoot the ball in such a different style — a different way — and be more accurate. It was a different world because it was so fast to me. I didn’t know where to go at first, I had only watched the game. It’s so much different watching it from the stands than playing it.”

“The physicality is very different. There are cross-checks all over the floor. When you don’t have the ball, you can run into people. I think that physicality shocks [Americans], and maybe they can’t pick it up as fast, or maybe they aren’t a physical player. But, the box game is such a physical game that you have to be physical enough to be able to play.”

Photo: Kate Frese/Philadelphia Wings

The changes can be hard to cope with, especially if individual players were already the cream of the crop in the field game. These are all-natural feelings. Learning something new will almost always be a struggle. 

Nardella, who may be teammates with Kitchen, Sowers and Ament if, and when, they choose to join the NLL, hopes that these potential American teammates understand that this process isn’t easy.

“Nothing is guaranteed just because those guys got drafted — I hope they don’t think they’re on the team because of that,” Nardella said. “I feel it’s harder to make the lineup as an American, and there’s a lot of work to be done in training camp to learn the game quickly.” 

The decision to undertake this challenge can be complicated. There is usually no black and white answer as to why or why not American field lacrosse players won’t give box lacrosse a fair chance. Ament, who happens to be currently evaluating whether or not playing the box game is the right path for him, is beyond grateful for what the Canadians and their box style have done for his career.

“People always ask me, ‘Would you rather play an American-style box game or Canadian-style?’” Ament said. “I tell them I’d definitely want to play a mix of them because I love playing with Canadians. Canadians are the reason I’ve had the success that I’ve had.”

As Americans like Rambo, Nardella and others continue their attempts to revolutionize the box game with their field talents, they and the trailblazing Americans that came before them can continue to lay the groundwork for future Americans to enter the NLL.

NLL, NLL DraftAdam LeviNovember 12, 2020NLL Draft, NLL

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90,000 Best American Documentaries of 2016 90,001 90,002 Afisha Daily has rounded up a dozen of the best American documentaries of 2016—everything you need to catch up on over a long weekend if you want to keep up with the world’s documentaries.

“Tower”

A film that doesn’t look like a documentary at all

A film about one of the first school shootings. In August 1966, a sniper sat on the tower of the University of Texas at Austin and shot students and passers-by for more than an hour and a half. A complex topic that could lose the viewer if the film consisted of just “talking heads”. In this regard, the director decided to recreate the entire chronology – but how to do this if there is no chronicle in principle, but the film is a documentary? The creators got around this problem creatively and used the method of rotoscope animation (as Richard Linklater did in The Blurred and Waking Life), so even though the film tells about events that occurred in the past tense, it feels like a live broadcast on a news channel . It would be fair to call The Tower one of the most unique documentaries of its kind.

Weiner

Film about the dangers of sexting during the campaign

Anthony Wiener is a former member of the US House of Representatives and a former candidate for mayor of New York. The best description of Anthony is “fabulous”, and this word is usually followed by a not-so-complementary second. Wiener became famous for sending a photo of his dignity to a girl who, of course, posted this photo on the Internet. Only now our “fabulous” character did this more than once. Despite this, he ran as a candidate for the election of the mayor of New York, and this is what the documentary was planned to be about. But now it’s worth taking a break and envying the luck of American documentary filmmakers, because everything didn’t go according to plan for the character they chose. During the campaign, a girl showed up and said that Viner still continues to sexting. Wiener also had a wife who, since the early 2000s, has been one of Hillary Clinton’s closest employees. Of course, he did not become mayor – and he divorced his wife. And all this is enchantingly captured in the film.

Into the Inferno

A film in which the 74-year-old director does something that is even scary to look at

Legendary director Werner Herzog has made more documentaries than feature films in his career. Sometimes it seems that Herzog never stops filming. Into the Hell is Herzog’s second documentary this year after Oh Internet! (don’t be discouraged, he also managed to release the feature film “Salt and Fire”, moreover, on a topic that intersects with the documentary). As is known from the career of Herr Werner, he is not looking for easy ways: either he will drag a ship through the jungle to shoot Fitzcarraldo, or he will come up with something else. Therefore, when it became known that in his old age he decided to climb into the mouth of the volcano, no one was surprised. At first, when watching the film, the same thoughts arise that during Herzog’s “Grizzly Man” – grandfather, well, you are a talent, why do you need this empty observation. But everything turns out to be much more complicated, and the volcanoes here are just a metaphor, and Herzog, with a career grander and more terrible than any volcano, once again showed us all what small people we are in relation to nature.

Gleason

A film about the real reason for that summer Ice Bucket Challenge

Steve Gleason is a quarterback for the New Orleans Saints American football team. In 2011, he was given a terrible diagnosis – amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (aka Lou Gehrig’s disease). Just a week later, life brings him a new surprise: Steve’s wife is pregnant with their first child. Realizing how he will change by his son’s adult life, Steve begins to record video diaries, telling the unborn child about himself and about his life. From these not the easiest recordings in five years, the director mounts an amazing story of courage and courage, but at the same time – problems and despair. It could have been an ordinary documentary about sickness and suffering if not for Gleason’s desire to help others with the same illness. Using his fame and connections, he created a fund that became known to the whole world because of the Ice Bucket Challenge organized by Steve. The life of BAD patients was noticeably easier (if you can call it that) when he proposed his changes to Barack Obama in the process of creating Obamacare.

De Palma/De Palma

A film in which the accomplished director Baumbach admires the great director De Palma

One of the brightest minds in American independent cinema, Noah Baumbach made a film about his idol, the great director Brian e De Palme . On the one hand, he made his task easier by making a film about a subject in whose work he is well versed, and on the other hand, try to interest other viewers just as deeply with such minimal means. The film differs from other similar stories about directors in that there is no set of people who worked with De Palma, who traditionally tell funny stories about him. The narrator is Brian DePalma himself, who analyzes key scenes in his films with academic precision, and in chronological order. This is not the movie if you wanted to know more about De Palma’s life. But if you are wondering what was behind one or another of his directorial decisions, then the choice of the film is obvious.

Southwest of Salem: The Story of the San Antonio Four not as well-known and popular as the Memphis Three, but definitely deserves attention for a number of reasons. Nineties, American South, four Hispanic lesbian women. They are accused of raping the young niece of one of them. According to the results of the jury trial, which, of course, took into account all the side facts, they received 20-year sentences.

Only in the 2000s, Project Innocence lawyers took up this case and began to blow dust off the archives of the already closed case. It turned out that the condemned may not have been guilty at all, as they had stated from the very beginning. As a result of the film, women got a chance to appeal. The story ended after the film: only a month ago, on November 24, 2016, they were finally found not guilty. But who will give them back those years behind bars?

Marathon: The Patriots Day Bombing

A film about the life of people left without legs after the terrorist attack of the Tsarnaev brothers modern America. While a feature film on these events is being prepared, a documentary has already been released. But the main thing in it is not an investigation, not a re-creation of events, and not even a search for Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev. The film is entirely focused on the adaptation to the life of people affected during the terrorist attack. A large number of victims had their limbs blown off in two explosions.

This is a story about heroism – about how people realize their new life with or without prostheses. Maybe the movie can’t always find its rhythm and gets a little off track, but it doesn’t matter in the end.

Forever Pure

Film in which Israeli football players are racist towards Chechens

Beitar is one of the most popular football clubs in Israel. In the mid-2000s, it was bought by the Soviet billionaire Arkady Gaydamak, from whose cash injections the club won the Israeli championships in 2007-2008. Soon, Gaydamak humiliatingly lost the election of the mayor of Israel, the club began to lose ground, but thanks to the work of the coaching staff in 2013, the club began to gain momentum again. Gaydamak even took the club to Grozny for a friendly match with Terek, which they played in a draw (Gaidamak says in the film: “Before the match, Kadyrov asked me what score would suit me – 0:0, 1:1 or 2:2”). Pursuing his financial interests in Chechnya, Arkady signs two Chechen players, Zaur Sadaev and Dzhabrail Kadiev, to the club. At the same time, it is known that La Familia, the Beitar fan group, is the most right-wing of all fan meetings in Israel. Of course, the fans cannot accept the presence of two Muslims in the team without cavils, and it makes no difference to them whether they are Chechens or Arabs. In addition to the religious theme, the film also tries to figure out how a nation that has been subjected to repression for so many centuries can be so calm about racism.

OJ: Made in America

A film about an athlete who killed his wife and her lover, but the court decided otherwise

History makes history. It’s hard to remember another documentary film that would have shot in January, while the noise around it would not have subsided by the end of December. Before us is a television mini-series, which with a 99% probability will be nominated for an Oscar in the Best Documentary category (it has already been shortlisted). In the United States, ESPN has a “30 for 30” section that combines documentaries about athletes, and it could just be another film from this project. But ESPN realized they had something more on their hands. Instead of the planned 5 hour version, they extended the film to 7.5 hours. And they showed it in full at Sundance. Then the unthinkable happened. The film instantly entered the tops of film and television critics, topped the ratings on specialized sites. Interest was also fueled by the feature series American Crime Story, released in February, about the trial of O.J. Simpson. The channel decided to play big and a couple of weeks before the June TV premiere released it in cinemas to qualify the film for the Oscar race. If you watched a feature series, then you should know that only 2 hours from the film are given to the court, the rest is devoted to O.J.’s life before and after, so this will not be a repetition of what is already known.

Holy Hell

A film that is almost entirely made up of real cult recordings

Buddhafield is a cult and sect that developed in the mid-80s in Western Hollywood. Will Allen, the director of the film, was a member of this cult and part-time videographer for 22 years. The cult exists to this day, but Will Allen at some point realized that he was mistaken and edited a film from the footage. In fact, nothing special, just a bunch of people wanted to trust someone and, as usual, shift the responsibility for their actions to another person. This person turned out to be a certain Michel, who pretended to be a great actor (in fact, his filmography included only a silent five-second episode in Rosemary’s Baby and a small filmography in gay porn). Now the sect is based in Hawaii, and we must pay tribute to Allen – he was not afraid and flew there to talk with Michel, filming these dialogues on a hidden camera along the way. I am glad that most people left the sect, but it is frightening that no less number of weak people joined the cult in Hawaii.

“Fantastic Lies”/”Fantastic Lies”

A film in which it turns out that not everyone #I’m afraid to actually tell the truth

A chronicle of many years of litigation. Duke University is one of the most respected in the country. Their lacrosse team is a separate pride. Of course, her players got away with a lot. But in 2006, a terrible thing happened: a stripper accused three members of the team of rape at one of the student parties. None of the team members betrayed the rapists, there was a lengthy lawsuit that caused irreparable reputational damage to both the university and its employees, not to mention the students. Only now, years after this trial, it turned out that these were false accusations. Unfortunately, neither the reputation of one of the best student coaches nor the ruined careers of the players can be repaired. During the filming of the film, director Marina Zenovich encountered a problem: one of the players did not want to discuss this, but at the same time believed that his point of view should be voiced by his mother. This prompted Zenovich to restructure the film: almost 90% of the people involved in the film are the parents of the falsely accused players.

“Tickled”

A film that will forever change how you feel about one little thing

New Zealand reporter David Farrier accidentally stumbles upon a YouTube video that is described as a “tickle tolerance contest.” Deciding to delve into the topic, he realizes that this strange event has many supporters and even a big sponsor. In the process of investigation, he suddenly encounters a powerful syndicate that threatens him with both courts and death. A completely crazy topic turns into a full-fledged thriller in the course of action, in which we worry about David no less than he cares about his life. The absence of any postscript punishing the perpetrators spoils the film, but it will be one of the most tense one and a half hour sessions in your history of watching documentaries.

Top 25 Boston Attractions

A symbol of freedom, a forge of professionals and an important tourist center in the United States – all this is about Boston. It was here that the flames of the American Revolution flared up, as a result of which one of the most powerful and prosperous states in the world was formed. From the walls of the famous Harvard University came out outstanding people who turned the world of technology. Therefore, Boston really has something to be proud of.

In addition to the glorious past, the city can offer tourists an equally valuable and interesting present. Boston is constantly becoming a venue for music festivals and grandiose sporting events on a national scale. Even a simple walk among the greenery of the Public Garden or the Arnold Arboretum will leave travelers with pleasant memories.

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

Freedom Trail

Hiking trail that starts at Boston Common and ends at Charleston Harbor, where the USS Constitution docks. The trail leads through the city center and the main attractions associated with the history of Boston gaining independence from the English metropolis. The length of the route is about 4 km. All memorable places are equipped with signs and tablets for the convenience of travelers.

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Boston Tea Party

A museum dedicated to the famous protest of the American colonists against the British Empire in 1773. This event gave impetus to the American Revolution, as a result of which the country gained independence and eventually formed the United States. The museum is located on the ship. In it, visitors can not only look at the exhibits, but also take part in impromptu performances dedicated to the events of those years.

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USS Constitution

Late 18th century sailing ship still in service with the US Navy and on active service. He took part in several battles. During the Anglo-American War of 1812-14, British cannonballs were fired off the sides of the USS Constitution, earning the ship the nickname “Old Ironside”. The ship was last repaired in 1995. Today there are guided tours.

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Community Garden

The park was established in 1837 as the first botanical garden in the United States. Over time, it turned into a public place where people come to relax, take a walk, ride a boat on the lake and communicate with nature. The public garden is adjacent to the Boston Common, forming a single space with the latter. Sculptures and monuments are scattered everywhere here, at the entrance there is a statue of George Washington on horseback.

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Boston Common

Boston Central Park, which dates back to the first half of the 17th century. It covers an area of ​​20 hectares. At first, this area belonged to the first settler from Europe, W. Blackstone, then passed to the colonial authorities and began to be used as a pasture, a little later – a military camp and a place for executions. A full-fledged park appeared here only at the beginning of the 19th century.

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Arnold Arboretum

The Arnold Arboretum is located in suburban Boston. It was created by the architect and landscape designer F. L. Olmsted. The place was named after the merchant and whaler James Arnold, who donated a large part of his fortune and land to create it. Today, the arboretum is not only a picturesque park, but also a research site of Harvard University.

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New England Holocaust Memorial

The six glass towers were erected in 1995 to commemorate the Jews who died during the Second World War. Each tower symbolizes a concentration camp of death: Auschwitz, Belzec, Treblinka, Chełmno, Majdanek and Sobibor. Inside the towers, the walls are engraved with the words of people who survived their imprisonment in these terrible places.

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Old North Church

The temple was founded in 1772. It is one of the oldest in Boston. The building was built in the Gregorian style, very popular in the British Empire in the XVIII century. The architect W. Price worked on the project. Until 1810, the North Church was the tallest building in the city. The church spire was installed on the roof three times. The first two designs did not resist the hurricanes of 1804 and 1954 years old.

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Trinity Church

The building was erected in 1877 on Kopley Square. Previously, there were swamps here, but gradually they were covered with gravel and the construction of a residential area began. The Trinity Church was built in neo-Romanesque style according to the project of G. Richardson. The architect focused on local materials – sandstone and granite from the quarries of Massachusetts. The temple was added to the US National Register of Historic Places in 1907.

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Museum of Fine Arts

The Boston Gallery is considered one of the largest art museums in the United States. Her collection is second only to the Metropolitan Museum of New York. The exposition is located in a picturesque neoclassical building designed by G. Lowell. Due to the huge number of exhibits, in the 2000s it was decided to build a separate wing, which was completely dedicated to American art.

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Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Private gallery founded by J. S. Gardner in the early 20th century. This woman was a great connoisseur of art and a philanthropist. Isabella wished that after her death, an outstanding collection of more than 2.5 thousand exhibits would become public. Among the works exhibited in the gallery are paintings by Titian, Rafael and other European masters, as well as paintings by D. Sargent and D. Whistler.

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Science Museum

The Science Museum is a complex that includes not only exhibition halls, but also a planetarium and one of the largest IMAX theaters in the US. It opened in 1830. Initially, its exposition consisted of the trophies of travelers who visited Africa and Asia. In the 1950s, the museum turned into a full-fledged science park. At the same time, a large complex was built for him on the banks of the Charles River.

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Harvard University

One of the most famous and prestigious educational institutions in the world. The university building is located in Cambridge, which in turn is part of the Boston metropolitan area. Harvard was founded in 1636. Today, its structure includes 7 faculties, 12 schools and one institute. Many famous people graduated from the university. Among them are eight US presidents, as well as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Another famous educational institution in Cambridge, which is included in the lists of the best universities in the world. The institute specializes in the training of specialists in the technical field (which is obvious from the name). He also trains in the areas of management, linguistics, economics, philosophy and political science. MIT has a powerful research base, which allows it to train competent and sought-after specialists.

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Boston Public Library

The book collection is located in a magnificent Neo-Renaissance building. The library is known for being one of the first to lend out books and materials to take home. She also owns the third largest book fund in the United States. Several million copies of valuable books and manuscripts are stored here, among which there are early editions of writers of the 16th-18th centuries, as well as medieval maps and engravings.

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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library-Museum

Most of the museum’s exposition is dedicated to the life and work of the 35th US President John F. Kennedy. The building for the collection was built in the 1960s with charitable contributions. It should be mentioned that more than 36 million people donated money to the museum, Kennedy’s personality was so popular among the American people. The opening ceremony took place in the presence of President D. Carter.

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Massachusetts State Capitol

The building that houses the state legislature and also houses the governor’s office. The structure was erected on Beacon Hill according to the project of C. Balfinch. The building is built of red brick. The main facade is decorated with a portico and Corinthian columns, which is typical of the classical style. At the beginning of the 20th century, the eastern and western wings were added to the structure.

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Old Capitol

The Old Capitol is located in downtown Boston. It was erected in 1713 on the site of the old city hall. Prior to the construction of the New Capitol, Beacon Hill was the seat of the state government. The architecture of the building is an example of the Gregorian style. Sometimes the Old Capitol is called “the most historic building in the city”, as in 2013 it turned 300 years old.

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Faneuil Hall

Faneuil Hall embellished the streets of Boston in 1722 thanks to the efforts of the French merchant P. Feynuel. The first floor of the building is occupied by shops, on the second floor there is a hall where public debates on various issues take place. In the 19th century, S. Adams, one of the leaders of the American Revolution, spoke at Faneuil Hall. Other well-known political figures were also noted here.

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New England Aquarium

The aquarium is located on the Boston waterfront. It is inhabited by several hundred species of marine inhabitants (more than 20 thousand individuals). Visitors will see the fauna of the Arctic zone and the Pacific basin: penguins, sea lions, turtles, sharks, exotic fish, jellyfish and many others. On the huge IMAX screen, guests are shown breathtaking films about the underwater depths. After the tour, you can have a bite to eat in a cafe located right there.

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Quincy Market

An indoor pavilion in downtown Boston, erected in 1826 and named after Mayor D. Quincy (who organized the construction). As a result, Quincy Market has become a tourist destination for shopping, delicious food, socializing and atmosphere. The pavilion houses shops, market stalls, eateries and souvenir shops. Here you can often see the performance of street artists and musicians.

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Fenway Park

1912 baseball stadium, home of the Boston Red Sox. It is the oldest venue in North America’s Major League Baseball. After the reconstruction in 2008, Fenway Park began to accommodate up to 40 thousand spectators. Along with baseball games, classic and American football competitions were previously held here.

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TD Garden

Sports complex in the city center built in 1990s. The stadium is home to several teams in various sports at once: the Boston Bruins (hockey), the Boston Celtics (basketball) and the Boston Blazers (lacrosse). The TD Garden is a multifunctional arena that allows various types of competitions to be held.