Why We Fight (DVD) Frank Capra’s WWII Masterpiece

Frank Capra’s World War II Masterpiece

Why We Fight is an incredible overview of the events leading up to America’s involvement in World War II. Master filmmaker Frank Capra was commissioned by the U.S. Army to produce this documentary series to show the soldiers what they were fighting for—and what evils they were fighting against. With nearly seven hours of actual footage from WWII, Why We Fight adds a new dimension to the study of history—a dimension that books and photos cannot match.

Capra gives viewers a greater understanding of the issues, battles, heroes, and villains of World War II as told from America’s perspective. The films in this series are as compelling as any war movie, but the battle-weary soldiers and civilians are not actors. The explosions and the ensuing destruction are not the product of Hollywood special effects—they’re real.

Far from perfect, Why We Fight stumbles over ideas like religious pluralism and FDR’s New Deal. It is proof that history is not neutral—the bias of the teacher (in this case, Capra) shows through. As such, viewers will have their woldviews sharpened if they keep their minds engaged. Our hope in making this series available is that viewers will learn from the past so they can emulate the triumphs of past generations and avoid their mistakes.

This seven-part series includes:

• Prelude to War
• The Nazi’s Strike
• Divide and Conquer
• The Battle of Britain
• The Battle of Russia
• The Battle of China
• War Comes to America
• Bonus: Two Vintage Newsreels
• Bonus: Frank Capra Biography