Gone with the Wind is a film that is based off of a novel written by Margaret Mitchell, published June 10, 1936. The film, released January 1, 1939, was produced by David O. Selznick and directed by Victor Fleming. Fleming began his career in the film business in 1910 as a stunt driver, and eventually moved on to work for Douglas Fairbanks as a cameraman. After some time as a cameraman, Fleming broke into the director's role with his first big hit, The Virginian in 1929. His greatest works include Red Dust in 1932, Bombshell in 1933, Treasure Island in 1934, The Wizard of Oz in 1939, and of course Gone with the Wind in 1939. Fleming was actually brought in to direct Gone with the Wind as a replacement for George Cukor, who had a disagreement with the producer about the filming pace and budget. .
The film features the life of Scarlett O'Hara, played by Vivien Leigh, during the onset of the American Civil War. The building tensions, struggles and concerns revolving around the American Civil War are constant factors throughout the film. The film begins when Scarlett discovers that the man she is in love with, Ashley Wilkes played by Leslie Howard, intends on marrying his cousin Melanie Hamilton played by Olivia de Havilland. Distraught, Scarlett declares her love to Ashley at a barbeque, Ashley however, states that he does not reciprocate her feelings. The entire exchange is observed by one Rhett Butler played by Clark Gable, who is infatuated with Scarlett O'Hara. In an attempt to make Ashley Jealous, Scarlett accepts the proposal of Charles Hamilton (played by Rand Brooks) and the two are married. .
After the declaration of the American Civil War, men left and right enlist to join the fight against the north, including Scarlett's new husband, Charles. Charles does not spend long in the Confederate Army, as he contracts pneumonia and measles not long after leaving to join the war, and dies.
