Amandla! A Revolution in Four Part Harmony

AMANDLA! A REVOLUTION IN FOUR PART HARMONY tells the story of black South African freedom music and the central role it played against apartheid. The first film to specifically consider the music that sustained and galvanized black South Africans for more than 40 years, AMANDLA'S focus is on the struggle's spiritual dimension, as articulated and embodied in song. Named for the Xhosa word "power," AMANDLA lives up to its title, telling an uplifting story of human courage, resolve and triumph.

Learning Questions

1. Who was Vuyisile Mini?
2. What were the Meadowlands? How does the tone of the song compare to the words?
3. What were passbooks and how did people protest having to use them?
4. Describe how these songs are created.
5. Which song sung or discussed in this film did you like best and why?
6. Why do you think the filmmakers decided to make this film?

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