Free State of Jones

Entree: Fried Chicken

Sides: Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Biscuit, Cole Slaw & Green Beans

Dessert: Chess Pie

Timing: President's Day

Movie:
Free State of Jones is a tale often skipped in history class, however, it plays an important role when trying to gain perspective on the bigger picture of the Confederate South during the Civil War.

Essentially, this is the making of the perfect storm well behind enemy lines within the delta of Mississippi. Below are just some of the contributing factors that led to this very unique situation:

• Despite popular belief rich Southern planters were equivalent to our current day 1%. The military ranks reflected those of society and the ones at the lead had the most to lose.  In other words, the war effort was led by the sons of those wealthy plantation owners while the foot soldiers consisted of poor farmers.
• In a desperate move to survive the Confederate army would rob and steal from their own people leaving them to starve.  
• Most importantly, slavery is a crime against humanity.  Plain & simple.

Enter Jones County, Mississippi and Newton Knight:

• Mississippi - Remains till this day one of the poorest states in the union.  
• Newton Knight - An incredibly courageous man who not only revolted against a war for the rich but against slavery and racism all together.

Additional interesting points to consider while watching are as follows:

• The Union's reaction to this "post" within enemy territory.
• The portrayal of the Reconstruction era.
• Contemplate how there were just three generations separating the defendant of the "modern day" trial (which occurs in the background of the main plot line) and that of Newton Knight.  It is a stark reminder that while this seems to have taken place a long time ago it really is not far removed at all.

Mel's Rating: 84%
On a scale of 100.

Brett's Rating:
On a scale of 10.