Red Storm Rising: The Struggle for the American Communist Party

Sat, May 30 11:00 P.M. NH World (11.3)

RED STORM RISING: THE STRUGGLE FOR THE AMERICAN COMMUNIST PARTY chronicles the complex history of the Communist Party USA (CPUSA), from its formation in the early 20th century through its rise, influence and eventual decline. Though never a major political force, the CPUSA played a role in American politics, the labor movement and the cultural life of many workers. Under the leadership of Earl Browder (1932-1945) and William Z. Foster (1945-1957), the Communists attempted to build a mass radical movement, and in the process achieved respectability previously unknown and now frequently forgotten. Despite their close collaboration, Browder and Foster eventually became each other's nemesis as they struggled to address the challenges presented by the Industrial Revolution. Their relationship reveals how inner squabbling in a political movement can affect its influence and ultimate success. More broadly, RED STORM RISING explores the ideals, struggles and contradictions of a movement that challenged the status quo and left a lasting, if often overlooked, mark on U.S. politics.

Duration: 56 minutes and 46 seconds