E245

'The Great Debaters' with Jeff Johnson and Kevin Stoller

From Better Learning Podcast · Hosted by Kevin Stoller

2025-08-20·34m

Episode summary

In this episode of Better Learning Podcast: Released in 2007 and inspired by true events, The Great Debaters tells the story of Wiley College's debate team in the 1930s, led by Professor Melvin B. Tolson. At a time when segregation and systemic injustice were defining forces, this small but determined team rose to national prominence, even going head-to-head with Harvard University.

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Original publisher description

Released in 2007 and inspired by true events, The Great Debaters tells the story of Wiley College's debate team in the 1930s, led by Professor Melvin B. Tolson. At a time when segregation and systemic injustice were defining forces, this small but determined team rose to national prominence, even going head-to-head with Harvard University. More than a story about competition, the film highlights the role education plays in empowerment, resilience, and giving students the courage to use their…