Remember the Sultana
Remember the Sultana

Movie spotlight

Remember the Sultana

2018
Movie
96 min
English

Over 2000 Union soldiers, passengers and crew were crammed aboard the steamboat Sultana, licensed to carry 376. Graft, greed, overcrowding, a poorly maintained boat, and the Mississippi River was swollen with spring snowmelt conspired together to create a disaster. On April 27, 1865, the boat’s boilers exploded, causing the worst maritime disaster in US history.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Jay D. MillerGenres: Documentary, History

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the tragic story of the Sultana steamboat disaster, which occurred on April 27, 1865, when the vessel exploded and sank on the Mississippi River. The explosion occurred while the ship was carrying an estimated 2,137 passengers, primarily Union soldiers returning home from Confederate prison camps. The film explores the harrowing events of the disaster and its aftermath, highlighting the immense loss of life and the historical context of the period.

Critical Reception

The documentary received positive attention for its detailed exploration of a significant, yet often overlooked, historical event. Critics praised its commitment to historical accuracy and its respectful portrayal of the victims and survivors. Audiences appreciated the educational value and the emotional impact of the storytelling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers a comprehensive and poignant look at a forgotten tragedy.

  • Commended for its thorough research and dedication to historical accuracy.

  • An emotionally resonant and educational film.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The Sultana disaster, which killed more people than the Titanic, occurred just days after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, overshadowing it in the national news.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review