Harlan County U.S.A.

This film documents the coal miners' strike against the Brookside Mine of the Eastover Mining Company in June 1973. The strike arose from Eastover's refusal to sign a contract after the miners joined the United Mine Workers of America. It lasted over a year and was marked by violent clashes between armed company forces and the striking miners, supported by their families.

Barbara Kopple provides a historical context to the miners' plight and the challenges faced by labor unions. The film delves into key issues such as black lung disease and the fight for workers' rights. Its focus on the experiences of miners and their families serves as a powerful testament to their struggles.

For collectors, Harlan County U.S.A. is available on DVD, making it accessible for those interested in labor history and documentary filmmaking. Its preservation by the Academy Film Archive underscores its significance in American cinema.