New Animated Map Explores North Carolina's Pivotal Role in America's Military History

(Washington, D.C.) — From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina’s history is woven with complex tales of loyalty, division, rebellion and courage. The American Battlefield Trust’s newest animated map, North Carolina at War, delves into this intricate legacy, where patriots fought for independence, loyalists defended the Crown, and, later, Blue and Gray clashed during the Civil War. Produced by the award-winning Wide Awake Films, this immersive experience brings to life dramatic moments spanning the years 1770 to 1865. Parks, museums and historic sites may request permission to make use of the film to orient visitors. 

“North Carolina’s battlefields hold stories of great consequence, stories that shaped our history,” said Trust President David Duncan. “Through our animated maps, we aim to illuminate the state’s unique journey through war and conflict, and ensure these moments are remembered and appreciated by future generations. 

Watch the newest animted map below:

The 23-minute production skillfully blends motion graphics, engaging narration, and battle reenactment footage, transporting viewers through nearly a hundred years of history. Divided into key eras, the film begins during the Regulator Movement in colonial North Carolina and follows the state through its influential role in the American Revolution, including important action at Moore’s Creek Bridge and Guilford Courthouse, both now units of the National Park System. The Tar Heel state’s importance takes center stage during the Civil War, from the conflict’s first joint army-navy operations at Hatteras Inlet to the fierce fighting for Fort Fisher, to the largest Confederate surrender at Bennett Place during the war’s waning days.  

“We love working with the American Battlefield Trust on projects like this. North Carolina at War leverages our cutting-edge map animations and extensive live-action library to create powerful new accounts that help bring this history to life for new generations.  But as with every project, it's the story that matters most, and sharing North Carolina’s rich military history in this video is exactly the kind of story that resonates with so many” said Shane Seley, Founder and Director at Wide Awake Films. 

North Carolina at War joins the Trust’s ever-growing arsenal of video productions, which have collectively garnered millions of views across the globe. These resources, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and beyond, continue to educate and engage viewers eager to explore America’s most significant conflicts. The latest installment was made possible through generous support from the State of North Carolina and its Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.  

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today.  The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 58,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.  

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