The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the Historic Context of 1899 on Netflix
The Introduction – Setting the Context
When it comes to historical dramas, Netflix has completely revolutionized the way we watch them. In 2018, among the Netflix originals, one historical drama that stood out was ‘1899.’ This series has grabbed the attention of viewers worldwide, primarily due to its storyline, unique production techniques, and detailed attention to history. It is set in the late nineteenth century and explores the voyage of a migrant ship, ‘Orion.’ The show is full of suspense, drama, and history, with a large ensemble cast of actors.
However, for viewers to understand the series’ context, it is vital to have an understanding of the historical backdrop of the time in which the show takes place. In this ultimate guide, we’ll delve into the history and culture of the late nineteenth century, which will help you enjoy the series on a deeper level.
The Body – Well-Researched Facts and Insights
The Late Nineteenth Century
The world in the late 1800s was vastly different from today. The advent of the Industrial Revolution had changed the way we lived, and the world was rapidly becoming a global village. Technological advancements had taken over agriculture and manufacturing, and people were moving away from traditional means of livelihood to the industrial sector.
In Europe and America, this was the era of imperialism, which saw countries vying for global power and influence. In 1884, European powers gathered in Berlin to divide Africa among themselves. Britain, France, Portugal, Germany, and Belgium were the primary beneficiaries of this division, leading to the infamous “Scramble for Africa.”
The Migrant Ship – A Historical Reality
The primary setting of ‘1899’ is the migrant ship ‘Orion,’ which represents a significant historical reality of the late nineteenth century. The late 1800s witnessed a significant migration of people from Europe to America, Australia, and South America in search of better opportunities. Immigrants traveled in large passenger ships that were specially designed for these journeys.
These ships, although comfortable by the standards of their time, were not entirely safe. Overcrowdedness, unsanitary conditions, and lack of adequate healthcare facilities posed many challenges and risks to the passengers on board. The show does justice to this portrayal, showing the conditions under which people traveled to different parts of the world.
Women’s Rights and Gender Equality
We cannot speak of late nineteenth-century history without talking about the struggle of women for their rights. The late 1800s saw the rise of the first wave of feminism, an ideological and political movement that aimed for women’s equal rights. Women began demanding suffrage, better job opportunities, and education.
The series ‘1899’ takes into account the prominent role played by women in the societal revolution of the time. It portrays the struggles and triumphs of women in a patriarchal society that relentlessly undervalues their contributions.
The Conclusion – Key Takeaways
‘1899’ is not just a series, but a beautifully crafted portrayal of late nineteenth-century life. The series does an excellent job of providing a visual representation of a tumultuous period in history. From the steam-powered engines to the period costumes, the series immerses you in a time long past. Understanding the historical backdrop of the show allows viewers to appreciate the attention to detail and the nuances that the writers and producers have worked into the show. Moreover, it creates a better appreciation for the struggles and challenges that people faced during this era.
So, if you’re planning to watch ‘1899’ or have already watched it and wanted to understand the historical context better, we hope that this guide has provided you with a better understanding of the late nineteenth century. Happy viewing!
References
– “Berlin Conference,” Encyclopædia Britannica, accessed June 4, 2021, https://www.britannica.com/event/Berlin-West-Africa-Conference.
– “The Scramble for Africa,” History, accessed June 4, 2021, https://www.history.com/topics/africa/scramble-for-africa.
– “Feminism: The First Wave,” History, accessed June 4, 2021, https://www.history.com/topics/womens-history/feminism-1.
– “Emigration and Immigration in the Late 19th Century,” Immigration and Migration: Digital Collections for the Classroom, accessed June 4, 2021, https://library.ucsd.edu/research-and-collections/collections/notable-collections/immigration-and-migration-digital-library/research-line-guides/emigration-imigration-nineteenth-century.html.
