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Reel Truth: Exploring the 1898 Wilmington Coup
Documentary screening and discussion at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is hosting a powerful evening of film and conversation about the long-suppressed story of the 1898 white supremacist coup and race massacre in Wilmington, North Carolina. The gripping documentary "American Coup: Wilmington 1898" will be screened, followed by a discussion with the film's producer Brad Lichtenstein and Emory professors Dr. Carol Anderson and Dr. Crystal Sanders.
Why it matters
The 1898 Wilmington coup was a violent event that overturned Black political and economic progress during Reconstruction, and its legacy continues to impact the region today. This event aims to shed light on this important but often overlooked chapter of history and connect it to the Center's new exhibition on the legacy of Reconstruction.
The details
The documentary "American Coup: Wilmington 1898" reveals the details of the 1898 white supremacist coup in Wilmington, North Carolina, which resulted in a violent race massacre that overturned Black political and economic progress during Reconstruction. After excerpts from the film, producer Brad Lichtenstein will be joined by Emory professors Dr. Carol Anderson and Dr. Crystal Sanders for a discussion connecting the film's themes to the Center's newest exhibition, "Broken Promises: The Legacy of Reconstruction".
- The event will take place on February 23, 2026.
The players
Brad Lichtenstein
The producer of the documentary "American Coup: Wilmington 1898".
Dr. Carol Anderson
A professor at Emory University who will participate in the post-film discussion.
Dr. Crystal Sanders
A professor at Emory University who will participate in the post-film discussion.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The organization hosting the event and the new exhibition "Broken Promises: The Legacy of Reconstruction".
What’s next
After the event, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights will continue to host programming and exhibitions exploring the legacy of Reconstruction and its impact on civil rights.
The takeaway
The 1898 Wilmington coup was a pivotal moment in American history that has long been overlooked, but its legacy continues to shape the region and the nation. This event aims to shed light on this important chapter and connect it to ongoing efforts to confront the unfinished work of Reconstruction.
