The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College
The story that inspired a film. The achievement that inspired a nation.
Inspired by the critically acclaimed Hollywood film The Great Debaters, The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College unveils the true story of Wiley College’s 1935 debate team and their groundbreaking defeat of the all-white reigning national championship debate team at the University of Southern California. Shattering racial stereotypes and overcoming adversity against great odds, these courageous young debaters emerged triumphant, commanding not only the respect of their peers... but of the nation. Influenced by their coach Melvin B. Tolson, the Wiley College debaters would go on to devote their talents to the causes of civil justice and social progress and become leaders in the Civil Rights Movement. The film comes full-circle, as the legacies of The Great Debaters inspire Wiley’s new debate team as it seeks to reclaim its glory on the national stage.
Directed by Brad Osborne
Where to Watch
Streaming
Rent or Buy
Cast
- Gail Beil Self
- Eleanor Boswell Self
- Thomas Freeman Self
- Lewis Keys Self
-
Nate Parker Self - Adam Clayton Powell III Self
- Haywood Strickland Self
- Harry Thomas Self
- Melvin B. Tolson Jr. Self
- Arthur Tolson Self
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