Inside a Boxing Battle of Global Proportions: A Special Screening of The Clash of Nations: Joe Louis vs. Max Schmeling

The Paley Museum is pleased to host a special advance screening of The Clash of Nations: Joe Louis vs. Max Schmeling, a new documentary on The HISTORY Channel executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter’s award-winning athlete storytelling brand, UNINTERRUPTED. 

Set against the rise of fascism in Europe and racial segregation in the United States, the documentary follows the parallel lives and careers of American Joe Louis and German Max Schmeling as they overcome social and political obstacles while hurtling on a collision course to two historic matchups in the ring, and a pivotal place in history. Their first fight in 1936 shocked the world, while their 1938 rematch at Yankee Stadium came to symbolize a larger clash between democracy and Nazism. It’s the U.S, versus Germany, and democracy versus fascism, symbolized by two human beings in a ring carrying the weight of the world.

Through personal accounts, historical analysis, rare archival footage, and expert commentary from historians, authors, and relatives including Joe Louis’s son, Joe Louis Barrow Jr., The Clash of Nations: Joe Louis vs. Max Schmeling brings new depth to a legendary rivalry and offers a nuanced portrait of how a single sporting event can shape culture, politics, and history.

Following the screening, Joe Louis Barrow Jr., The Clash of Nations director Nikki Spetseris, and other documentary participants will discuss Joe Louis’s legacy and what became one of the most important fights of the 20th century.

This event is made possible by generous support from The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.