Appalachia: Rich Land, Poor People

[@moniquethomas3610]

It's amazing about community leader Robert Fulcher, and what a long journey he had taken, to be able to embrace Andrew Young as his brother after having experienced a lifetime of racial bias. Poverty knows no color. It's more amazing still, how backward people like to be, it seems. The couple profiled here can't afford to feed their present amount of children , yet they use no protection when having sex, and now pregnant, the woman smokes. Things for a lot of people, never seem to change.

[@shopobjetdart]

All people are irrational to some degree. However, we aren't irrational in the same way. Why do impoverish people still have children? Well, it probably has something to do with our biological imperative to survive as a species through procreation... which isn't a product of rational thinking... Ever notice that more successful people tend to have fewer children despite being in a position to afford more...?

[@juliechs8336]

It's almost , not nearly.. as bad as a pregnant woman drinking a coke or eating fast food. Judge not.

[@moniquethomas3610]

@@shopobjetdart Good point. I agree with you here.

[@moniquethomas3610]

@@juliechs8336 Frankly I think they're all pretty bad things. I understand your point, but whether it's a cigarette or junk food, there's nothing nourishing in them for a prenatal babe.

[@XJonAye]

A friend of mine got a old dresser, the drawers were lined with news paperS from the 50’s. One of the articles read that “cigarette smoking may be linked to cancer”. They didn’t know the dangers, this was a different time when doctors smoked in hospitals.

[@sheliemartin6690]

There is no shame in being poor. I grew up very poor, but I didn't know it until selfish spoiled mean "rich" children demeaned , and mocked me. I didn't hold it against them. They wrongly, and ignorantly thought they were better than me. I would not trade my poor raising for anything. You see when your poor you learn humility and kindness. Those are priceless qualities

[@shannonfbc1]

It also makes you appreciate and value what you do have.

[@alaskan6384]

Truer words have never been spoken. God bless you

[@jeni2114]

God blessed you

[@angelahunter7332]

So true!

[@cowboykelly6590]

Heartwarming, bless you Ma'am & your family . 🤠🖖

[@tripeeblonde8309]

I’ve heard my Dad say many times “we were poor, but we didn’t know we were poor. We always had plenty to eat” Grandmother had 10 children and they had a little farm w a cow, chickens, garden - they all worked hard and took care of each other with a strong faith in the Lord.

[@tnwhiskey68]

The main problem, especially in the mountain country, isn't lack of jobs. It is the fact these people didnt need jobs because they were all self sufficient until "civilization" came in and tore that system down.

[@mississippijohnfahey7175]

Right. Look at any community with lots of jobs. Still plenty of poor people barely scraping by. The way we live now gives most of the resources to a few people, and excludes some people from any resources at all. Back then, each person knew how to get what they needed, and so everyone had about the same amount. Only problem is they lacked educational opportunities and modern medicine, but that isn't worth much if you can't afford it

[@BushyHairedStranger]

Plutocratic Oligarchy-the shortened definition of A few of the wealthiest people have all the money and they decide what happens to everyone else because of that $$$. Lose the value in that $$$ and things change!

[@crystalsheets3547]

I think you about the entire country.

[@sheilacape4794]

Infiltration!

[@MrScaryLemonHead]

Civilization? Hahahahahahahahaha! That’s a legitimately stupid comment.

[@David-sc2ir]

My mom and dad were from southern West Virginia and when pop was 17 he joined the army.... best thing that ever happened to him. Got him out of the hills and gave him an education. My mom was a self-starter and left the hills and worked in a drug store for years to save up enough to put herself through nurses training and got her RN. They met, married... and never looked back. California was the next stop for them where they flourished and invested in land and finally broke the cycle of poverty. They are both alive at 90 and 88 and live a very comfortable life... but they still eat beans and cornbread, and they still grow a garden :) Can't take the mountains out of ones soul.

[@bob733333]

War is not the solution to anything. It's another rich man's trick.

[@melodyjones5305]

God bless them for their perseverance and diligence and the wonderful examples an work ethic they passed on to their loved ones what a blessing you've been given to have them as your parents.!!

[@kimwagoner1147]

Born and raised in Boone County WV. Loved it. Mom and Dad both loved Corn bread and milk. Grandparents did too. I'm from a Coal Miner and back when I was a kid when the mines would go on strike we had nothing. I can remember the mines had been out for 6-7 months and for breakfast and dinner we had what was from the garden. Corn, beans, cucumbers. I remember mom crying every night and now I understand why. Coal mines was all there was. My grandpa Wagoner had to crawl on his hands to work and my grandmother made him biscuits out of water and that was his dinner. They had 14 kids and was raised dirt poor.

[@Icybones000]

They might have lived a life free of poverty but became a slave to the government and traded a life that no city can ever offer. They lost the ability to self sustain and relied on corporations to provide for their everyday wants.

[@jeremiahguy32]

That's why they keep us poor, so we'll join up

[@lindacombs3505]

I lived in Hazard Ky and my Dad never worked in the coal mines and it was in this time period me and my siblings was children. My mom and dad both worked with very little education. My dad worked for Bartlett’s tree company and my mom worked as a cook at the local school. They had six children and until I got married my mom and dad never received any government assistance. God blessed us abundantly. My Dad sought out employment outside the growing trend of the coal industry. I remember him saying these coal mines are not a stable job and he had 6 kids he had to think about. Dad would often say electricity will always be here and they will always need somebody to keep those lines clear. To this day Asplundh tree company the company who took Bartletts bid from them are still clearing the electrical line. Dad was certainly a smart man and my hero. Dad and Mom raised six children without any government assistance and they both worked into their old age.

[@sha8342]

Any chance you’re related to or happen to know Ester and Dui Combs from Hazard Kentucky? I might have misspelled Dui’s first name. Pronounced Dooie. Well if you’re are related then Howdy from Esters sister’s child. Well I’m 60 yrs old now. But when young we came there too visit a couple times. I fell in love with Kentucky and the people. Always wanted too live there.

[@sha8342]

Just remembered the spelling. Dewy combs and his wife, my aunt Ester.

[@lindacombs3505]

@@sha8342 No my husband could be Combs is my married name. My maiden name was Godsey we lived at Lottscreek but Howdy right back at u my friend.

[@tennesseegirl5539]

❤❤yes

[@heatherfulmore3412]

I prefer to work. I am glad that the governor of Florida took over the job service. The use to tell job applicants to apply for food assistance. I ended up finding jobs without consulting them.

[@elizabethcampbell4897]

In 1982, I completed my student teaching in Lost Creek, West Virginia. Even at that time, there were places that I had to walk up a hollow to reach the home of one of my students. Some students still had mis-matched shoes and wore ropes around their waists instead of belts. I worked at the local “ramp festival” and truly enjoyed the company of the older women and their stories of the hills. I’ve never met friendlier, more god-fearing people than those West Virginians. Many had nothing but were willing to share all that they had.

[@brandi_with_an_i]

I'm convinced there are very few areas in the U.S that know struggle like that of the Appalachians. My dad grew up in the Appalachians of Georgia. He was one of nine children. Back then, the only way to make money was to cruise timber, work in a factory, or run moonshine. Sat for hours many times and listened to my dad and his family talk about how all they had to eat most of the time was lard and cornbread. They received food stamps, but they didn't last long for a family of 11. My dad left the mountains at 15 and moved to Atlanta where he met my mother and started a family. He worked hard with limited education, recieved his GED, and has been with the same medical company for over 30 years now. He moved back to the mountains and brought us with him to get us out of the crime ridden neighborhoods of Atlanta. He was able to buy my grandma and grandpa a newer home, and helped them financially any way possible until the day they passed away in 2006. My dad has always refused to receive any help from the government. I've never, nor will I ever, meet anyone stronger and more resilient than those of Appalachia. Very proud to have known my old time Appalachain ancestors, and listen to their stories of perseverance.

[@brandi_with_an_i]

DOE John no one likes a troll, not even the troll. Must be so miserable. Sad

[@sandraglover2681]

Doe John is a sad, miserable soul.

[@peachesb-georgia1125]

@DOE John why would you say something like that...I guess the saying is correct... stupid is as stupid does... just be quiet...

[@GottliebGoltz]

Bravo.!

[@louisecreswell6565]

On

[@kathygooden4622]

My Grandma had 13 kids and my Grandpa drank his check away, I have no idea how my Grandma managed to feed her family and take care of them. By the Grace of God I guess. My Dad told me stories of having no shoes to wear so he couldn't go to school and of my Grandma cutting apples into rings and hanging them from the ceiling to dry so the kids could have something sweet. My Grandma was as tough as nails and she could render her own lard and not let any of a pig go to waste. We take so much for granted these days.

[@mariebernier3076]

Absolutely. These folks made do, like my folks and grandparents did on their farms. Even though we were raised in town and now I live in Brooklyn NY, I'm still attached to these ways. Our culture now is more and more disposable and less able to manage for themselves. Thank God for your grandma and my parents to help us learn the other way. Sad that others don't.

[@loisaustin6200]

So many of us have stories from our parents and grandparents so similar to this one we are seeing today. My people come from the woods of North Carolina, my dad's father was a drunk and a bum, ran off and left my grandmother with four sons under the age of 12 to feed and provide for. She took in washing, sold whatever vegetables she could raise, whatever eggs she could get a few pennies for from her scraggly chickens. My father at age 14, 6'2 and 200 pounds, the middle child of this family, lied about his age and joined the merchant marines as a cooks helper. He went money home every month to my grandma. My dad only had a very limited education but worked hard all his life and sure gave me and my mom a better life by getting the hell out of that area and moving out in the world where the were some opportunities. Unfortunately, the two older brothers turned out just like their no good father, the two youngest ones made it out and made a good life for themselves. Our roots all go so deep.

[@yolososmile8604]

Sounds much like my grandma and papal.

[@lastnamefirst4035]

@@loisaustin6200 getting outta there for opportunities seems to be the smartest thing

[@apriljasso9731]

Houses aren't free or cheap. The American Dream is expensive lol I think if most people could own a piece of land and a simple home, they'd survive just fine. Big corporations and the government has their greedy hands out, tho, and don't want or need a self sufficient people. They need a stressed out, scared, and confused group to manipulate so they can get their hands in our pockets. Humans are the commodity nowadays...the days of working farms and not relying on money are over.

[@WakandaBabe]

I know this was a while ago...but this country is still messed up. When you can pay athletes and movie stars millions of dollars and there are people still living like this. Shameful.

[@100texan2]

It’s called taking advantage of a hungry belly.

[@yvettejones4249]

Whats shameful is those people making millions not coming back to places like this to help renovate homes,provide food, coats, warm blankets.

[@cjbotts]

Joseph Winkler because the football player is generating millions. Ticket sales. Television revenue. Jersey sales

[@douglasvilledarling2935]

I agree! Do you think the American people will ever stop paying so much for music concerts and sporting events. They money should go towards heroes and life savers like farmers, teachers, firefighters and police

[@lawerancelanham]

@@douglasvilledarling2935 nope, they're riding the ignorant train. Nobody actually wants to end poverty...they wanna point n laugh at it.

[@dariusdribbles.3981]

"Poverty is a state of mind" Says the man in a suit and tie at a fine banquet dinner.

[@williamwilson6499]

In many ways, it is.

[@networkdude1332]

@@williamwilson6499 The only people whoever say stuff like that are people who have never had to be in poverty due to something completely out of their control. I grew up for several years of my childhood in poverty.It is not a state of mind or a choice. I was able to turn my life around once I got older only because I had opportunities and financial aid and grants that allowed me to go to college. From what I have seen the same people who say pull yourself up by the bootstraps also want to take away the bootstraps I E grants financial aid public education etc.

[@charliedsurf1267]

The only arses saying that , inherited their money.

[@Guinevere.625]

@@williamwilson6499 you totally missed it yet you commented

[@gunner2gunner]

Proud Appalachian person. I love living in the mountains, it’s a simple way of life. Yeah I got a phone, I got a TV, I got a roof over my head and my truck is 20 years old. I don’t have anything fancy, I get by on 1 meal a day. You just do what you can to get by.

[@GenerationalDysfunction]

Lol. I moved to Texas and make decent money. I still only eat one meal a day. Seems like a waste to eat more food. Lol

[@gunner2gunner]

The New Kulak, I’ve always been a once a day eater. If I’m not hungry then why eat. Now I do drink at least a gallon of Iced Tea a day. That’s the wine of the South. I’m retired so I spend my days working on my 7.75 acres. Today I have 3 maybe 4 trees that need to be cut down. The are dead and brunches was falling off. I wouldn’t be needing firewood this winter. These trees will be enough.

[@terriefitzpatrick4946]

Nothing wrong with a simple life! You are surely blessed! Beautiful mountains, great attitude, and I bet peace in your soul! And you can see on TV all the BS in this crazy world you don't have to deal with.

[@hanoitripper1809]

Thats good, i eat once every 2-3 days , healthier and fasting is great

[@celladoor9696]

Hey that’s the way to live these days. Off the grid ! Be safe everyone reading this!!

[@dandylionriver]

The Dad was 38 in this film, but looked 58. His wife looked so old as well. The boy said “I failed the 6th. I had a tumor on my brain. The Lord cured it”. They still had their faith thru all of this. I wonder what happened to them all? I pray they got some relief and had a comfortable end of life.. Bless them all.. ❤️🙏

[@cowboykelly6590]

Amen

[@lindalund9621]

Yes poverty ages people and Even now poor people live shorter lifespans than rich people

[@THR3NA]

@@lindalund9621 @lindaphillips And I seen movie clips of young men joining services. They showed pics of before and after a few yrs fighting. It imprinted on my mind and heart. Those boys who joined up, they looked like they were in their 60's. One of the worst things I've ever seen. Absolutely shocked, I was horrified by what a few yrs of war, did to these poor boys, now old men by lookin' at them.

[@Brandy_Bee]

Frank Collins died 2 months after this story aired. He found work in the coal mines and died in an explosion along with 9 others. So heartbreaking.

[@shopobjetdart]

Bee, I didn't realize the Collin family experience the tragedy of losing their father soon after the release of this documentary. And it is heartbreaking. Do you have a newspaper reference so we can read the article or are you familiar with the family personally?

[@tammyshifflett993]

I would like to know too how you know this. I have wondered whatever happened to these people.

[@thesilentwoodsman3583]

www.newspapers.com/image/?clipping_id=9831771&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjM2Nzk1MTYxLCJpYXQiOjE1NjEwMzY5MzgsImV4cCI6MTU2MTEyMzMzOH0.6F07uwG28yDcUnGf0EA4N8TyF_zwPE7jvcQhNYhjmbI

[@thesilentwoodsman3583]

After some digging I finally found it.

[@tammyshifflett993]

@@thesilentwoodsman3583 I saw this too. This Frank Collins had 7 children whereas the one in question I thought had 3 with one on the way. I don't think it's the same one but I might be wrong.

[@marymarth7298]

Most of these children along with their parents will remember these as good old days as the best years of their lives. Family is the most important thing ever.

[@johnbhumphrey]

If men today had half the integrity as Frank Collins, this country would have no division. He had nothing to work with yet he took care of his family. Everything was stacked against him but he still kept trying instead of playing the victim.

[@serenas8144]

That is our nature and culture. Take care of our own and our business, our own self. 💛

[@louloulalee]

Good on Frank sad he got stuck in that situation 😔

[@magnoliamike]

John Humphrey I agree a very humble and honorable man he got on his hands and knees crawled through a little hole in the ground to warm his family

[@fritztopher]

Serena S what culture it’s human nature

[@williamsalter8388]

Men do have integrity like this Man, but when they put it on display TODAY is called TOXIC MASCULINITY and then you get hastaged to death bu the #MeToo movement. According to todays standard his wife is oppressed and denied equal pay. Knock it off. Live with what you fought for ladies. #MeToo👍🏾

[@markcitarella454]

The problem was also the way these companies made them buy back everything they needed to live from them at major inflation and at the end of the month they worked just to pay back the company store

[@loki6253]

I owe my soul to the company store. But the company' store or any other your paying somebody. The big company has got it all STILL

[@RamblingVegan]

Also the pittance of a wage that they got.

[@loki6253]

@@RamblingVegan Ain't it the truth?

[@RamblingVegan]

@@loki6253 Yep. And it's all the same now as then. Sure, we have mor amenities now, but corporations run everything. They fund Democrats and Republicans. We need both a massive movement such as the CRM in the states, or to Freedom Fighters in India; and we need to elect Greens and Libertarians. Vote Howie Hawkins 2020, for sure. Our current politicians do the corporation's bidding.

[@loki6253]

@@RamblingVegan So sad that no matter who is in office that is who we owe our allegiance to. Maybe we have our own ideas, and that is who I am backing, and those that have respect,

[@timkat649]

MY GRANDMOTHER LIVED IN BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS OF NORTH CAROLINA SHE ALWAYS HAD A GARDEN AND WE NEVER WENT HUNGRY ,HAD COWS AND CHICKENS TOO ,WE WERE BLESSED PEOPLE TO HAVE HAD GRANDMOTHER

[@a.e.renegar5975]

tim kat WHY are you yelling?

[@WonderGeology]

If you looked closely, your see that Frank had a garden, too.

[@theresabollman8061]

Men, take heed, as tough as things are for them right now that family is ok, the kids are growing up to be good people and there is hope because Daddy is there for them and with them...and sober.

[@Sassysweettea]

so true

[@nancyminer64]

There are alot of Daddies that are there and sober...they work, bring home money, do not sit on thier ass and not go where the jobs are....I guess that's why we pay money to support thier sex drive!!

[@jasmineq1171]

theresa bollman he really seemed like a great provider for his family.

[@kathiebrophy7156]

They're religious, and their religion forbids birth control of any kind.

[@zodiacdana]

That's not true about birth control. There are many different religions in eastern Kentucky. The culture is the problem. The coal miners make good money, over $50,000 a year. Most people don't save any money. Kentucky has one of the highest rates of tobacco use, obesity, and single mothers. I have lived in Kentucky all my life. Industry won't move into the area because there's no interstate and no other industry to feed off of. I am from eastern Kentucky but I don't live in there now. I moved close to Lexington.

[@WillaHerrera]

It's sickening to watch that county assessor talk about trying to tax the rich coal companies and how the legislators won't tax them. It's fairly clear there was plenty of people in politics being paid off even back then.

[@sframe1978]

And that is the problem right there. Don't blame the corporation for violating the laws, blame the law makers who violate their own laws and let corporations break the laws so they can get kick backs. Companies in this country are the sub problem the real problem is the political whores who sell themselves to the companies and have no morals or standards.

[@michaelwills1926]

You can blame both.

[@SJ-ni6iy]

And even back then they labeled you a socialist if you spoke against the company or wanted the rich to pay their share. We have fell for the same tactics over and over and now all the wealth belongs to the top 1%.

[@SJ-ni6iy]

@@sframe1978 the companies have lobbyists bribing these politicians, these politicians wouldn’t do it without the companies prompting them to.

[@tonjakoldus6863]

Bless her heart showing those pictures. Mountain folks are a proud people and I'm honored that my kin come from Appalachia.

[@mariebernier3076]

Yes. Proud people, honorable culture, real life. Rare people.

[@yolososmile8604]

You damn right. They make fun of our history but they wouldn't know how to survive if shit hit the fan. I'm proud to say I will still be alive

[@CLWettstein22]

Me too. My family is from Parkersburg WVA and I'm proud of that.

[@peggyhill7283]

Me too. Thank you so much for your comment.

[@donmigueldecuenca]

It is heartbreaking that our country has failed these folks, who helped make our nation great.

[@williamgates5652]

Those men toiled in the mines for coal that powered all those big cities. When they were used up, the cities forgot them without another thought other than "stupid hillbillies". It is still the only ethnic group in this country where you can make as many vulgar jokes as you want without repercussion. And according to the New York Times you can even exterminate the people of Appalachia at will.

[@pmf598]

Well Trump says he's going to make America great again , so maybe it wasn't so great at that time . . .

[@Neku628]

@@pmf598 it's not like it matters. If you're used to living in poverty just getting bread crumbs is a saving grace.

[@pmf598]

@@Neku628 i think it matters to the people who are making America great again . . . they say this time , 1950's - 1960's , was when America was great .

[@Neku628]

@@pmf598 those times weren't so great for women, LGBT+, and non whites.

[@karns78]

Outsiders don't get it and probably never will. I am Scotch- Irish, bred and born Appalachian. People don't leave because it is home, kinship, deep roots, memories, and history. People look like you and talk like you. That dirt piece is just property to outsiders, but it is ingrained in our blood. Appalachian folks I grew up around KNEW how to garden and can. They did whatever they could turn a hand at to survive. These last few generations grew up lazy and prefer drugs. It hurts my heart. Our culture is being destroyed and our legacy also. TVA and the various government agencies have cheated us more than can ever be told. Grandparents on both sides of my family had farmland go to forced sale for government use. Robbed them both. My family never used welfare and we helped one another out. Times have been a changin'. As for not being able to understand our speech, do some research and find out the basis of it. Watch some videos. Close your eyes and let the sounds flow over you. It is pure and has its own rhythm. Many people become enchanted by the cadence and wording/phrasing. It is not ignorant; it is heritage.

[@gardensofthegods]

Very nicely put... can you please tell me if any of your people, your parents ,your ancestors grew up using the pure gum Spirits turpentine, medicinal quality for health ? I use a brand from Georgia myself and have gotten great results with it but there are several reasons I'm trying to find out... and one of them is I heard some stories about government intervention and how some of the families were not treated properly by the government because of this. I have made a suggestion to the history guy channel to talk about it. I gave him what little information I had but I am also trying to find out myself first-hand what the truth is.. I got a weird message this morning from a woman who saw my comment to the history guy and she claims she's from the Appalachian region and that this never happened... I think she either doesn't know about it and chose not to believe it or maybe she's not who she says she is... she's calling it a conspiracy story.. can you please tell me if you ever heard anything ?

[@nikkic83]

Graymare78 well said. I an drawn to Appalachia and it’s people.

[@rethastoneking4680]

Graymare78 Beautiful comment about your family..These were wonderful people our ancestors who persevered such hard times. Some people can not appreciate the love of family and the land we are a part of. My prayer is for all the people of the Mountains to be in good health and to prosper. faith in God is one of the most important things to get through..God Bless you and your family..

[@checkyourhead9]

❤

[@marvinhighley3444]

My momma was raised in eastern KY and dads side was also from there....I understand your points...they stay because its home...I was born and raised in Ohio but my heart is in KY.

[@jaccusefashion]

I really loved the family in this. you could see that the father was a kind man and that his wife had been incredibly beautiful and was only about 35 but worn out. Their kids were very well behaved and loved where they are from.

[@rebeccacharles2325]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS FAMILY THEY ARE BRILLIANT AND DOWN TO EARTH GOD BLESS EVERY SINGLE ONE WOULD BE AMAZING TO SEE IF ANY OF THEM ARE STILL ALIVE XXXXXXXX THANKYOU FOR THIS GREAT SHARE XXXXXXXX

[@jaccusefashion]

@@rebeccacharles2325 indeed, they were just amazing. The Backbone of America kind of people.

[@rebeccacharles2325]

THE GOVERNMENT CAN PROVIDE MENTAL ILLNESS AND it HAPPENS TO THIS VERY DAY, THEY DISGUST ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@rebeccacharles2325]

@@jaccusefashion is there any more we can watch about the family?? 2??

[@semidor1]

My father always told us about the history here -

[@brucebarton2837]

This shows how messed up the system is. These folks have been totally forgotten. What a shame. These are hardworking people who helped build this country and how convenient it is for our country to forget about them.i know this is an old documentary but it still goes on today in 2021.Something must be done.

[@jenniferglosser4034]

most humans are a selfish and greedy bunch. we are a sad species.

[@tripeeblonde8309]

The coal companies are responsible

[@patricianapier5860]

I joined the Marines in 1966 to get away from this kind of poverty in West Virginia to be able to send a little money back home!! and to this day in 2019 the County I came from ,Wayne County,is still steeped in Poverty!!!--David.

[@lastnamefirst4035]

Glad you got out of there. I hate to see young people get sent over seas in the military bc its their only option of getting out of poverty. It is a way out tho

[@sheilac1845]

Patricia Napier My kids were Marines My daughter has a good job in Nashville but my son is still looking It breaks my heart, they've worked so hard and my boy had to leave the military early because of a near fatel motorcycle crash

[@sheilac1845]

Patricia Napier Thank you for your service 🇺🇸

[@jeanniedecoster1529]

@@sheilac1845 sorry

[@jeremiahguy32]

I'm in Roan Mountain TN and it's getting really bad here

[@valeriegriner5644]

Americans should be ashamed of this situation...and of how many poor, homeless people(including our veterans)... are out on the streets!

[@foolnfish]

@Diane Catts Yes!!! Diane gets it RIGHT!!!

[@diannh2894]

We need to get better politicians and start trying to fix it

[@diannh2894]

@SRN 11B2P in a perfect world we could have em all arrested but our fbi is just as corrupt

[@sandrageorge4429]

I grew up poor in a small town in oregon.moved to cali.when i was 11.joined marines at 17. Went to Vietnam .came out moved to the river.40 years went by and i was still there . i know what its like to be without.

[@8ofwands300]

@ Diane Katts - With all due respect, in what way are the Democrats responsible for the poverty in Appalachia? To the degree that poverty has been alleviated in the hill country at all - through programs like Food Stamps, Medicaid and the ACA - these are programs established by Democratic admjnistrations. How is a spoiled New Yorker- who inherited his wealth from his rich daddy- your savior? You've been conned and if you vote for him, you'll be voting against your interests. Trump doesn't care about you. He wants your vote -that's all.😐

[@charlieerickson8149]

Respect for the man on public assistance at this time. I'd be happy for my tax money to go to him and his family. He is ready to work!

[@timechangeseverybody3608]

That's right. Ain't no shame in needing some help...what's shameful is taking advantage of help and this family sure wasn't doing that

[@bob733333]

Their goal is to have every person on the dole forever.

[@jeffvanderwerf3561]

Yet so many judge people today who are on public assistance, and people judge them. 70% of people receiving food stamps in 2021 work full-time. The problem is the system, but no one wants to mention that lest they be labeled "socialists" or "communists"...same as these people from 60 years ago. Same message.

[@KraftyKreator]

"Poverty is a state of mind." Wow, and yet I'm pretty sure he'd freak if he had to live in that "state of mind".

[@qballusajasondavis7923]

I'm only 39 years old and I was raised in the hill of Tennessee just like this so it's not over with by far.

[@missycollins140]

A tribute to.. Bill and eria Collins grandmother... grandfather... who worked in the coal mines in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky may you rest in peace...belisha collins...your granddaughter..

[@heathergillen9663]

My family lived on the same land over 100 years there was Some land sold but we still have 100 acres in a hollow of West Virginia . My mamaw the oldest and she told me many of stories. One thing I can say the land we still own we have rights to all mineral, oil,coal,timber, my great grandpa had 3rd grade education he went to work because his daddy was killed building a bridge we still drive over. He work the coal mines, railroads, he had his own saw mill and coal mine. When I was a kid I remember going up home and my papaw working his ass off. He always said pay cash grow and kill your own food don't waste. In the hollow ever one help each other out. I blessed to be a Great granddaughter of a coal miner. Learned not to be a asshole. You do positive that what you get.

[@MrDanielCitizen]

I can't believe he is only 38. he looks like 58. hard living.

[@wisdommercy]

Daniel Stillings hard living ? Cigarettes are hard on your health - they both chain smoked

[@doug814]

worry ages you quick

[@johndouglas5712]

@Charles and Heather Wade Bless you . Your comment is going to be the only friendly comment on the page

[@forreal245]

Yeah, but Frank is still able to make them babies.

[@johndouglas5712]

Charles and Heather Wade Thank you and bless your hearts from Cleveland Ohio

[@joannbritt5195]

she was told she was eligible for disability and the social workers never came back to sign her up.... SAD

[@lindaphillips148]

These people have BEAUTIFUL SOULS!!!!!hard working poor !!! BUT THEY HAD LOVE FOR EACH OTHER!!!!! AND LOOKED AFTER EACH OTHER!!! THE WAY IT SHOULD BE WITH EVERYBODY!!! GOD BLESS THEM!!!!🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@russellhopson1658]

I am sure my dad was in Vietnam when this was filmed. Bless his sole. If this was made in 68 I was maybe 1 . 11 years later he was gone. My grandfather past away in 77 or 78. My dad went home to be with him before he past. And dad already had the cancer. In 79 my dad went to be with his dad. So my grandfather starts talk at 18 minutes a 45 seconds. Don't know if I ever seen him alive before this video. I knew it was him because I could see my dad in him. It's saddens me to know how my dad grew up as a kid. Things are so different now. Thank you who ever made this video.

[@walkingtrails7776]

thank you for posting, my entire family is from this region, my daddy was born in a back room of one of those company homes, my grandparents did the best thing in the world when the mines closed, they moved. they were one of the fortunate families that could move right away , some could not due to sick family members or lack of funds for travel and settling down expenses. it's good to remember , in no way did poverty occur in these areas because of laziness, these people wanted to WORK, my how things change,

[@sameersameer-mg6ve]

The outsourcing of American jobs , put a lot of people who wanted to work , out of a job ! Some people call out of work Americans lazy and claim that they just want free food stamps/welfare ! American corporations chose to put the communist Chinese to work .

[@collinsfriend1]

they aren't lazy but lost. They don't know how to to "fish" in the modern world and have become dependent. Their son heard on TV if he didn't have an education he could not get a job. We know that's not true - the job would be minimum wage no doubt...but a job. Sadly he took the TV at face value. Areas like this need massive retraining programs, job programs to teach people ho to either become self employed or a skilled labor, and how to maneuver through it all. Because they don't know how to do it themselves, they become helpless hopeless. That can change but rarely without help.

[@marzan6857]

"I'm just a slave to the company store". Are we any better now? Don't think so. Debt controls us all.

[@charlieerickson8149]

Doesn't have to. Not making enough? Move, still the greatest country on earth.

[@yolososmile8604]

I'm not in debt. I live within my means. I only get what I need. No need to be greedy. That's where the debt comes from.

[@jillgarlick2122]

You maybe, and many others who walk into debt with their eyes wide open, but moan when it begins to bite. I used to be one of those, now on a small pension, don’t drink, smoke or do drugs, no debt, live simply and am much happier than when I had all the ‘trimmings’. Banks control with debt, governments control with taxes and welfare. Just keep walking into it and moan when it bites.

[@jillgarlick2122]

Krystal Thomas absolutely.

[@WillBlindYouWithLight]

They make it that way it seems.

[@angeladumbuya1609]

There was a son born in 1971, he died this year 2023. There is only one brother left. I pray their end was beautiful.

[@chrishenicke2052]

People had to rely on each other back then to survive! People banded together and cared about each other! Hope everyone is paying attention to this because we are headed that way now! ✌️

[@loki6253]

Headed there no we are not... We are there God Bless and help us as a nation realize what is going on and quit being so politically correct and bitter and just appreciate and love our differences and help each other and love each other. STOP IT PEOPLE QUIT BEING JUDGEMENTAL AND SELF CENTERED. OUR BODIES ARE ONLY A VESSEL IN THIS WORLD. WE ARE ALL THE SAME, EVEN IN OUR DIFFERENCES

[@janetteblaydes7112]

💐🙏📖👍Amen! Love our neighbors as our selves. Were we live on the west coast, no neighbors talk to their neighbors. Been in the same house for 2 years now and don't know but 1 neighbor. Break's my heart😔💔

[@peggyhill7283]

@@janetteblaydes7112 .....Just a suggestion: Why don't you throw a pot luck dinner so all can introduce themselves. It may be small for the first year or two. But if you make it an annual time & date it could become something. Have it in your yard or a nearby park. A journey of a thousand begins with a few steps.

[@JOHN----DOE]

Coal Executive: "If what we are doing is wrong, then the whole country is wrong." BINGO!

[@chamboyette853]

After seeing this, the fact people are so obsessed with identity politics and sex scandals when judging politicians rather than thinking about how they can help the poor just disgusts me.

[@tomotasletitia3435]

And you disgust ME.

[@daa7560]

Identity politics, LGBTQ is just a farce and smoke screen to keep the masses focused on something that is insignificant. What people do in their bedroom has nothing to do with the economics of working class people and raising education levels for impoverished people.

[@willoutlaw4971]

Senator Mitch McConnell represent Appalachia. You all need to get in his ass and make him do his job to help you. Don't keep voting for him if he won't help you.

[@sheilac1845]

Colleen Kelly Excuse me Do you think we are too ignorant to vote integently?

[@chamboyette853]

@Sir-Lean Serve-Daily Ignore Letitia. It is a troll who starts hostilities with people for no reason and because it's life has no interest.

[@mmeatheaddd]

20 billion in "aid" to Israel and thats just one country - wonder how many Americans could be feed with 20 billion$$.....

[@chrisj197438]

mmeatheaddd Correct. We’re broke yet give a county with plenty of money our money that we have to borrow to get

[@robertmoore1123]

We need to take care of our own hungry band poor first

[@desmondfarrell7249]

Coy Leigh and fuck u 2, bitch

[@rosamariamendoza1466]

You are so right! You begin by helping your own!

[@candesok7926]

Actually it's been 140 billion over the yrs that was sent.

[@jeffkovene4420]

Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.

[@mikemccool2789]

Amen!

[@forreal245]

"poor in spirit" so God can comfort us, such as in heartache. God never wanted us to be without food/shelter. It is NOT a blessing to be "poor" physically.

[@samuelparker9882]

Jeff Kovene TRUE! However, sometimes it just seems as though they DON'T take advantage of the sources that are provided for them and all people in the U.S. to better themselves and children. They sometimes seem to be so proud that they box themselves in, morally and ethically. which then leeds to being boxed in financially and educationally. They almost WALLOW TOO PROUDLY IN THIER POVERTY. Like its a badge of honor. Then they teach thier children to expect the same and if the children move away and educate thierselves, and get a better life. The elders and parents and community OSTRACIZES THEM, AND CALLS THEM NAMES AND DISOWNS OR TURN THIER BACKS ON THAT PERSON. IT'S VERY CONFUSING!

[@kentarnold8179]

@Buddy John I am truly sorry for you BJ. When you and every living thing will kneel and confess that Jesus is Lord, these very words you have typed here will be played back and You will have to give an account for them. It's never to late for you Buddy John. I will be praying for you to come into the truth and knowledge of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The Bible even said that this all is foolishness (a fairy tale) to those that don't believe. But He loves you just the same and has proved that love with the finished work at the Cross.

[@timlehnen3226]

Bullshit, the. Poor. Are. Not. Blessed, come. On. Peopke,,,poor. People. Did. Something. That. Got. Them. Poor, ues. I. Know. We. Can. Choose. Our. Parents, but we all. Get. An. Opporunity. To. Go. To. School. And. Improve, no. Excuses. Except. Ignorance. Itself

[@allenlarabie8854]

I thank God my Grandfather & Father were good hunters and gatherers. Taught me a lot about surviving and being self sufficient. God bless them both.

[@Kristen879]

I grew up in Harlan the ky and ended up moving to the city because my husband lost his coal mining job. Sure do miss the mountains I'd give anything to be able to go back and live.

[@sugarstreicher]

I was born and raised in Harlan, Ky. Everyone in my family were coal miners, even my mimaw. I moved away years ago to the coast of NC but I miss home and try to visit as often as possible.

[@annettemasden3382]

You have to respect these people , they're proud and hard working . It's a shame that we don't help our own .

[@NATESINTERACTIVEAUTO]

I've always been in Eastern Kentucky and yes this was our biggest mistake ever. Letting coal companies play us, in so many different ways and you can see what we were left with nothing. They convinced people that its good money or they are the only jobs no but you do what you must or they can get their own coal.

[@GrannyGooseOnYouTube]

This is SO important for people to see NOW. THIS is how we got where we are today.

[@bryanwhittle77]

Hi how are u beautiful

[@GOOCHIElicker]

@@bryanwhittle77 I'm doing good thank you

[@peggyhill7283]

My Papaw was smart he had his own home. Didn't owe any company store anything. Although, he did retire from the mines black lung is what took his life. It's an awful ilness. Its actually watching someone suffocating and nothing you can do for them. I remember watching "The Waltons" with my Grandparents. My Granny would say, "This show is about the Depression era. They had too much stuff, times were much harder in the actual Depression." Love & miss you Granny & Papa!💕 Godspeed to you both!

[@blanchesellvv.ytobecoming.6371]

So true the Walton's we're rich compared to other families

[@tamakelly2879]

Black Lung killed my father after 44 years of mining!!!!

[@tamakelly2879]

Miss you Dad❤

[@peggyhill7283]

@@blanchesellvv.ytobecoming.6371 ......Thank you for confirming what my Granny knew.

[@peggyhill7283]

@@tamakelly2879 .......I'm so sorry for your loss. Black lung is a very hard illness.

[@clpr2023]

This was filmed in 68. I’ve heard there are still families like this in Appalachia. I wish someone would go track down the relatives of these people and do interviews with them! God bless them all. These people have nothing to give but if you need help they are there for you.

[@jazzcatt]

Yup, many still do live that way. Some do much better than others, but most have a hellish life these days. Drugs have been a big part of Appalachia for a long time now. It was pills for a long time. It has changed to meth and heroin in the last few years. Too many kids learn those ways from their parents. A very large portion of the people live on government assistance. Those that get hooked on drugs wind up spending their checks on drugs and resort to stealing, burglaries, and even robberies to get more money for drugs. It hasn't gotten better, it's gotten worse. It's more than sad. Take a look at the interviews of Appalachian people that have just been made within the last couple of months by a youtuber called Soft White Underbelly. If those interviews don't convince you things are just as bad or worse, thanks to drugs, nothing will.

[@mycolorfulcottage]

There are absolutely people still living this this. In America. Its just not right.

[@tabithawallen7716]

I’m 30 minutes from here the Collins family lived and I have family there- it’s like this even today. Many only have a coal stove for heat

[@Pamela-jj5uk]

I really wish someone would go back and find the families still struggling ,would love to take up donations for them ,my god I have so many nice clothes warm boots I would love to donate to these families ,get up a go fund me page for them ,there is so much we as Americans can do for these people ,because our corrupt government will not ,we need information on these people ,my god ,the donations would pour in and would help so much ,money food clothes

[@derekfreeman7015]

I live in Appalachia. It’s definitely still like this in some areas.

[@michelleherden3918]

These people might be poor in material things but they are rich in so many of the more important things like living, loving and family. I watched another video yesterday and thought to myself “how hard is life but how simple and beautiful it is”. I’m completely disgusted with what is going on in this country; riots, lawlessness, crime, hatred, lies by the media, inaction and everyone’s political agenda in everything! Unless we turn to God and bring him and law and order back into this country, we are done. We will all be on government programs and will be told how to live, where to work and where to worship (if we’re allowed). I’m seriously thinking of buying land and going completely off the grid if I can.

[@jennicase]

These are my people. I am glad my grandparents left Kentucky and got a factory job in Indiana back in the day and ended up having money and a fine home. But now factories are leaving our country and this whole thing is happening again.

[@sunflowers82]

Jenni Niccum My great grandparents moved to Michigan and had a better life too.

[@thepennsylvanian9280]

Manufacturing jobs are very abundant now! Many jobs available now thanks to President Trump!

[@ritadale6392]

Mike Cip yes everyone is hiring I am from Kentucky it is way better now we have a awesome Governor Matt Bevins they call him Trump jr lol thanks to Trump he took the high taxes and the regulations off the company’s Trump 2020 keeping America great 👍🏻

[@thepennsylvanian9280]

@@ritadale6392 that's Awesome!🇺🇸

[@fritztopher]

My family was black so the government and racist slowed the growth of wealth in black people through redlining

[@bigmami43]

This is so sad. I just got laid off from a cruiseline that I have worked for. They laid off thousands of us 3 weeks ago without telling us. Went in that day and they said we have no more work, your 401k we can no longer match and goodbye to all of you. 31 years working for this company. 1 week ago they outsourced and hired people from the Philippines and east india to do my job, and they get to work from home. They work for 3.50 dollars an hour less. My heart is broken. I have given my blood , sweat, and tears and I would have been willing to do the same if they would have just asked? I feel for these poor coal miners. This was a hard, long, and dangerous job they had to do.

[@mr.dolittledooboo3519]

Thats so sad my friend. I've been laid off and lost everything before. Always keep looking for something better. Please don't get discouraged.

[@ARasputinaFan]

What company did you work for, so I may never give them by business!! 😡😡

[@sourdeezlemaryjane9162]

I am so honored an thankful to be a part of these mountains...i was born in these mountains an ill be buried in these mountains...you can never know how close u are to heaven this high up on the mountain..god bless you all..be thankful!!

[@earlphillips9754]

I grew up in the mountains. We had chickens for eggs. We had a cow for milk. We had mules to work the garden. We had no welfare checks or food stamps.We had hogs for meat. We also ate ground hogs and othe wild animals. What ever happened to living off the land.

[@earlphillips9754]

I do not feel sorry for people that wonnt help themself.

[@susanbrown2909]

You got to have land in the first place..

[@lovemesomeslippers]

Earl Phillips He had to sell the rifle, remember? Couldn't afford ammo anyway.

[@gardensofthegods]

Earl Phillips Can you please tell me if you or your relatives or ancestors grew up using the medicinal quality pure gum Spirits turpentine to help you have good health. There is a reason I asked as I use the brand from Georgia

[@knowableprank9501]

I always am astounded at the folks ONE economic level up - so willing to trash those one level down. Good job drinking the "free enterprise" kool-aid

[@familytreenutshistorygenealogy]

Love these videos! We are trying to keep in history alive in our videos too! Especially in the Appalachian Region.

[@panatalasanchez7801]

They have love and faith. Such a beautiful family.

[@cantstandanymorez]

I would like to know how the kids from this family are doing today.

[@raccoonchronicles5134]

Still living in that shack.

[@Janellabelle]

Or dead...

[@brand3820]

Dead!

[@breejames6323]

I would like to know also. However I don’t think anything good came from it .

[@mikekennedy5470]

Terribly im sure probably strung out on pills or heroin..

[@melodymontana5370]

What a great documentary from the 1960's! Such a far cry from the sugar coat programming and propaganda style of that time. I'm not one to watch old films because admit it's all rather cheesey but I love a good documentary...raw and real. I've always been mystified by the Appalachian, a culture still linked to the old pioneer American way.. very interesting.

[@nickscoggins9002]

Poor guy. At about 8:33 he sounded like he was fixing to choke up but quickly carried on. My heart goes out to the families during that time era in addition to the families that still suffer from an unforgiving coal industry. It's just not fair how it affects everyone from the miners to the community that builds businesses in hopes of a thriving community that supports everyone.

[@brendaj9812]

They wanted the rich to stay rich and the poor to stay poor just the way it is , even to today eastern Kentuckians don't live we are allowed to exist

[@breejames6323]

Indiana is pretty bad too. We’re all broke here and everyone (including myself) is on food stamps .

[@8656737s]

The pain in there eyes just kills me 😢

[@salvatoregiovanni8967]

*their*

[@8656737s]

Thanks lol!

[@briankaul1201]

Speaking of which, you forgot to capitalize the A in always :P

[@8656737s]

LoL good

[@uhclem]

Thank the gods for grammar nazis!

[@MissAshten]

Ive seen this video hundreds of times and remind myself to watch it a few times a year to humble myself. I grew up poor and now I make decent money but I dont ever want my wages to outweigh my morals

[@thunderbird66613]

It would be nice to see an update of some of these families that were filmed in this documentary

[@josephwinkler4863]

I would really like to see that also

[@terrycaldwell7700]

Believe me you would not won't to I'm sorry to say.

[@jrstrange123]

@@terrycaldwell7700 I agree with you. Those kids are precious and it would be a delusion to think some miracle showed up at that time to propel them into wealth and good health. However, meth, moonshine and Mountain Dew were the things that arrived there. Would not want to see those children in any other condition other than the happiness they had.

[@terrycaldwell7700]

@@jrstrange123 it's hard for youins to understand if you was not born and raised here like I am.right about the time I was born JFK got killed later his Bobby was shot. My mother told a lot about that time frame,she told me JFK and Bobby wouldn't fix lot a things,but that didn't get to happen Johnson took over and ruined everything in her words"The worst President ever".I won't to far in on this point is it's not the culture that's making life hard it's politics,the New York Times,HBO,ABCs,of the world will never ever tell you this because they fake storys for hype not true.HOPE I helped a little.

[@randallsage6740]

Agreed. Where did they go ? What did they do (when they got there) ?

[@nanspark1870]

Wish there was a follow up film on the kids to see what happened to them. They were some of the most beautiful children I've ever saw

[@bryanrmcnair01]

The man got job and died in explosion accident! Not sure about the kids!

[@stephanieshefer5545]

@@bryanrmcnair01 different Frank collins

[@patriciaegan8149]

I wish the kids (and parents) in this video much success. You're parents are brave for sharing their story. Your beautiful to me.

[@antwortmir4451]

The cruel exploitation of these people by companies is so obvious [and] then the extra crap the company is telling people, it's brutal, it's hard to watch, it's disgusting. It’s absolutely sickening.

[@hermanshire]

Capitalism have always exploited the ordinary man.

[@emilyincasper4434]

It breaks my heart. One guy said I don’t want my great grandkids living in poverty. He probably has great great grandkids by now and they most likely live in poverty because of what these coal mines did to them.

[@joelashadali]

Capitalism for the rich rugged individualism for the rest. Listen closely to things these folks are saying. How they make the poor,those in need the monsters. Same thing happening today. All those poor states are just as poor today.

[@LovingAtlanta]

😳Frank Collins - 38 years old 😳 🙏Bless his heart.🙏

[@jeremiahguy32]

That poor man looked 60

[@j.p.foleyjr.6333]

Yeah holy shit !

[@LovingAtlanta]

Jeremiah Guy - For real for real.

[@LovingAtlanta]

MISTER FOLEY - Exactly

[@ginacable5376]

Bless all the poor people every where.

[@diva1675]

I wonder what happened to frank? He really tried to take care of his family.

[@carolynjones674]

My father and his father were coal miners! From Harlan County Kentucky. My father and his father and my uncles worked for Peabody coal. We did not live this, yes we had out houses, but not all houses had out houses, a lot had indoor plumbing. In 1968 Peabody had left Harlan County and this particular branch in Peabody went to new Lexington Ohio, 50 Miles from Wheeling West Virginia. My father worked for a union mine, yes they had little mini wars at contract time, but theses men stood strong and fought and kept good wages health care . When the coal camps of Blackstar Blackmont , insule. All went to Ohio,the people in that little village were shocked, that we HILLBILLYS were educated we were nice clothes and our parents drove new cars! My uncle was the dean of Cumberland community college No body could have grown up any more poor than he and my mom. He gave back to his Community by trying to get the young people out of the cycle of poverty with education. You see you are in charge of your destiny and your life, don’t depend on the government to feed you to care for you, they won’t , So you must change and do for yourself and sometimes fight for what you want what you deserve. It’s always been that way and it’s not changing !

[@gardensofthegods]

Carolyn Jones Can you please tell me if you or your relatives our ancestors grew up using the medicinal quality pure gum Spirits turpentine for health ? I use a brand from Georgia and have gotten wonderful results but there is a reason I am asking people this question for historical purposes

[@mariebernier3076]

Hi Carolyn, I know of Harlan so well, we lived in Southern Illinois and our town also worked for Peabody, among other companies. Our town was the site of a horrible mine strike and massacre in earlier years, still haunts people. I left there but am so interested in what you wrote about your uncle and how it's going with young people, are they getting educations, changing the cycle? Still seems like lots of the kids I grew up with work at the prison nearby or mine coal. Even with college there isn't a log of opportunity. Makes me sad, I felt that I had to move away to have a future.

[@bryanwhittle77]

Hi beautiful

[@carriebizz]

I hope the film crew paid them for being on film as they desperately needed the money

[@brand3820]

$0.00

[@lindsaythomson5539]

They got paid for this..otherwise they wouldn't have been up there...dont be fooled by all this..renegades hidden out since the Civil war.

[@extendedpinky]

@@lindsaythomson5539 nothing. They got nothing. This was public tv film they got nothing. Go watch the Darlene chronicles.

[@briliant8]

We use to play that game, throwing the ball on top of the roof of the house. My grandma's house had a tin roof. That brought back memories.

[@tired_of_u_ppl7985]

This is really tragic because even today it hasn’t changed much and no poor community should be left to fend for itself

[@freakinfrugal5268]

Frank has such a sweet demeanor

[@belindaknoblock7644]

Im from Putnam County, WV. The "Mountaineer XPress" gas pipeline is going through our property. I am so frustrated. My husband is not from WV and I have a hard time explaining why I am so upset about it. There is no place in WV that you can buy and be confident that a big company is not going to throw their weight around, pass out a little money, and cause land values to go down along with degradation of the forests, so some some rich people can get richer. :( Look at WV using Google Earth. You can see the damage caused by mountaintop removal even when zoomed VERY far out.

[@freddymarcel-marcum6831]

Belinda Knoblock Yes you can see it even from fifty miles high on Google Earth.

[@budscroggins2632]

Same happened here in Johnstown, Pennsylvania...when the fracking started,

[@stevecody9197]

you people are fucked , have a cold glass of water

[@cpkarkow663]

yet these folks keep voting Republican- the party that just gave these big corporations HUGE tax cuts. As the deficit gets bigger, they're gonna start cutting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid - the safety net these people who are left behind depend upon. I just don't understand why WHY do people vote against their own self interest?

[@bernardpopp541]

+Cp Karkow Why? Ignorance and desperate hopes...dem or rep they are still going to lose...they don't even have internet in their possession.

[@dufus2273]

make a grown man cry. the rich don't know and don't care. God help them.

[@lonewolf277]

That is so right cause they can't get thru an eye of a needle!

[@forreal245]

@@lonewolf277 That's who all Democrats "blame"...the rich. The rich work hard too & if not for them there would be no jobs for the ignorant masses.

[@rosamariamendoza1466]

Linda Bauske, and who do the " benevolent" Republicans blame?

[@lonewolf277]

@@rosamariamendoza1466 I don't blame anything on politics, I blame people that lost their heart!🌝

[@rosamariamendoza1466]

Linda Bauske, then I agree with you!

[@jewlz1960]

So glad I found this doc. , I enjoyed it and learned at the same time .

[@rebeccainnocent5874]

Sadly, these problems still exist, in these hills. I live 20 mins away, from Pike Co, KY, in WV and folks are still scrimping by. Watching this family eating thier pinto beans and cornbread made me smile. These are like our regional favorites. We grew up eating them, at least once a week. (I'm 37) My mother, however, ate them everyday growing up, with chicken added on Sunday. Minimum wage jobs are fought for here. The mines are still the most lucrative way to make money, but there are layoffs everytime you turn around. Education is better, but ways of life cycles are hard to break. Leaving is not an option for many, as its expensive, and after paying your bills, theres not much left. So sad....not much has changed....

[@gardensofthegods]

Rebecca Innocent That's very sad and it's a shame.. it's really also sad that businesses and industries are not going to that area to create jobs... why does it have to just be coal mining ? why can't they create new Industries there .. it's a disgrace they take the jobs overseas but can't create any in the Appalachian region . Can you please tell me if you or your parents or ancestors grew up using the medicinal quality pure gum Spirits turpentine for health ? I use a brand from Georgia and have gotten excellent results but the reason I am asking is for historical info .

[@nile5352]

Is addiction common? That will keep you in poverty for sure

[@uaw2317]

Some folk think the depression ended in the 30's. For the hollers down home, well they never came out of it... sad to say. Sad to see. Roots in Pike co. KY and Wayne and Lincoln counties WV

[@sframe1978]

I would take any money you can and save up for seeds and learn to garden, even if you don't have large amount of land, there are many plants that can be grown indoors or on a patio. that way in hard times you have food you can supplement for you diet and don't have rely on government to make sure you kids are feed. it is hard working gardening and learning to can but the rewards are the difference between going hungry while waiting for government check and have some kind of food to fee your children. tree chip gardening is a good way to garden if you have any kind of yard. you can go to most logging companies and get it for free or very cheap, beach it cost them a lot of money to dispose of it. there is a lot of information online about how you can improve you lives if take the time to learn. it may be hard at first but once you get basic set done, it get much easier.

[@jamescrews369]

@@sframe1978 dude do u know what year that is... Ain't nothing changed for the poor class of America and the big monopoly keeps it that way

[@johnnyrotten3887]

Just nearing the end of this documentary Makes me wanna hug them all. God bless them all Black & White folk

[@uratrick]

Raw bone poverty is brutal . I wonder how these companies are able to live with themselves .

[@naydee]

uratrick The coal mine company stores and company row houses in eastern Kentucky kept the people poor. 🙁

[@Kbeene08]

They never thought twice about it. That’s how.

[@pamelaworley4122]

They didn't care.....to them people are just there for them to work and keep on making the owner richer, while the poor get poorer.

[@RoM-po5md]

These companies and their executives and shareholders and their lobbyists enjoyed great life. These folks are just pawns in the chess game of corporate/capitalism...fake capitalism...and then these folks are scared and spooked by "communism" and "socialism"

[@RoM-po5md]

How does Mitch McConnell and their Republican leadership live with themselves? Happily ever-after!

[@Diesel257]

My maternal grandparents were born in West by God Virginia. My grandfather, at the urging of my great grandfather stayed out of the mines and learned carpentry then followed work around the country until settling in North Florida where my father is from. I feel extremely blessed to have learned the culture of Appalachia through Granny without suffering the poverty there.

[@CLWettstein22]

I love that they treasure the pictures they have.

[@toddprince8421]

Both myself and parents and grandparents are from Harlan KY... I'm so proud of my heritage.

[@mariebernier3076]

Yess!

[@ChillVanille]

I would have loved to see this in color but the black and white is so haunting. Hauntingly beautiful.

[@terrylunsford352]

My father and his ancestors all grew up in the Appalachians of far east Tn. about 14 miles west oof the N.C. state line.My grandparent squeezed out a living as sharecroppers, running a general store, cutting timber there was no coal mines in those parts.Dad and his siblings left for Detroit as young men and got jobs in the Auto industries. thank God each generation has gotten better educated and better jobs. My son is now an engineer for Rolls Royce (Jet engines) division. Much prayer and the willingness to walk through the doors God opened, as made this harsh life of poverty in those beautiful Mtns. a distant memory.

[@tankwfw]

Appalachians like my grandmother and grandfather didn't know they were poor until the man came around and told them. They were simple, hard working people. Life was rough but they were happy

[@Jon-zf3dq]

I am fascinated by this region of the Appalachia’s.

[@CWdudeyo]

My grandparents worked in the cotton mills in North Carolina. Proximity Cotton Mill to be exact.

[@dannykirton6445]

Frank Collins 38 he looked at least 58 i just can't even begin to think how hard those peoples lives were yet i bet they didn't sit around complaining/blaming and feeling sorry for themselves, We don't know how lucky we are.

[@melissamixon6212]

This is so very true. We are so blessed and all of us are so damn selfish..we must be..people not having food...medical care...you are right.. bet they don't sit around complaining..they obviously lost hope in their voice long ago..

[@minniemouska4320]

My granny married grandpa in West Virginia in 1915. He was a coal miner and died from black lung,They farmed and worked hard. She showed me the Company Store and told me how the miners were paid in Scrip. That was tokens you could spend only at the company store,where everything cost three times as much as in town. Since the town was far off and cash scarce, they bought everything from the company store and then charged the groceries. So everyone was in debt to the company store just like the song . It go’s “St Peter don’t cha call me cause yI can’t go , I owe my soul to the company store.”

[@8Scorpions]

Like someone else said..."it's heartbreaking" how these people lived.

[@BedtimeStoriesTellers]

And nobody will help them.

[@willanicole6356]

So humble the people living here and grateful and proud ❤ GOD BLESS them and ones that have passed

[@cristaltucker513]

"Doing it any other way is just socialism." Some things never change huh.

[@jeremiahguy32]

Spot on

[@danroot1563]

And... we are now still under the threat of socialist/communist rule 60 years later!

[@jeremiahguy32]

@@danroot1563 some idiotic politician yelling about socialism gets your attention...but the same politician saying that kids are virtually immune to covid in a presser and then later being on tape saying it was decimating kids doesn't bother your sheepish mind... Pathetic

[@Alex-mc5yn]

@@jeremiahguy32 McCarthyism is alive and well. I hope America gets over it one day.

[@ohmeowzer1]

frank collins seems like a very nice man hope his life got easier

[@yvonnelunsford1238]

He was lost in a mining accident shortly after this documentary.

[@Curiousever]

There are always slaves one way or the other. The filthy rich build their fortune on the dreams they promise to the poor. It may be coal, or clothing plants or musicians promising the rich life to poor kids who in turn provide the money for the millions amassed and mansions with kitchens larger than some home. Come nesara and gesara. Our backs are broken.

[@LovingAtlanta]

❓@4:24 does anyone know what the kid says to Frank? I admire and respect that Frank could converse with the interviewer as well as hear and respond to his kid (behind him) too.🤗

[@mycolorfulcottage]

God I hope some one still has those photos. She is so very proud of them. 😭❤💔

[@metalsouth2124]

So much for America first. This is still happening.

[@MikeSmith-cn6ub]

Ooh Trump has been doing what he can to make us great again and I hope he gets two more years to do more and I think he will go down as one of the best presidents thus country has ever had

[@currymarcel]

@@MikeSmith-cn6ub Please sir, with all do respect, he won't, it's all an act with smoke and mirrors. Watch what the rich do; not what they say!!

[@MikeSmith-cn6ub]

@@currymarcel with all due respect that's all I do is watch what he does and maybe you should practice what you preach. He has put Americans first in all his actions now if your not an American citizen yea you got nothing coming from Trump but that's the way it should be take care of your own first and foremost. If you just got your pay cheak and you were walking into the gas station and someone asked you for 20 dollars your gonna say hell no I gotta go home and take care of my people first before I worry about someone with there hand out. So if your an American citizen you have a president that's looking out for you. On the other hand if Hilary or Biden gets in were going to have a president that's looking out for the other guy with his hand out instead of their own people and that sir is the honest to God TRUTH

[@currymarcel]

@@MikeSmith-cn6ub I'm curious, prior to Trump, did you feel that Reagan and both the Bush's put Americans first? Politics can get touchy, and you seem to be very passionate about your beliefs. So, I ask you that question as a fellow American. And yes, I do practice what I preach; however, I try to be objective no matter who has political power regardless of political party. Both sides have their good and bad policies. We the electorate have the awesome responsibility to pick our leaders fairly and not get caught up into political partisanship which includes Fox news, CNN, Msnbc, and talk radio. How do you define a handout? That's the rich folks cliche to keep the middle and lower class people demonizing each other, instead of them. The rich, who routinely run our government, keep getting richer, and they don't achieve that wealth by giving out handouts. They cut their taxes, kill benefits for the workforce, and they are the ones who are employing the non Americans that you are so concerned about. They may say that out loud to make you feel good, but the reality is that, the elites would rather give the non americans benefits first, second, third, it really doesn't matter, instead of paying our fellow Americans a living wage with benefits so we can take care of our families. Look at the recent corona virus stimulus package; did you see how the money was given to the big corporations by mistake, so they say, instead of the real small businesses that needed it? Look at who got the billions of dollars to who the treasury secretary wont disclose? Only a few officials know where the money went which includes the President! So did they really put America first, or themselves? So, the non Americans are not the problem(but a good scapegoat), but the rich politicians are; that is why they want to stay in power, and make policy that favors them. Mr Trump himself said, after he signed the tax cut bill into law, " I saved you fellow rich folks a lot money". Look at your taxes closely; they went up! Mr Trump didn't care about you or me before he became President, and he won't after he leaves office because we are not in his tax bracket. He does not understand the poor and never will. He was blessed to be born into money. It is not his fault, but let us not pretend he understands what it's really like! Oh yeah, you mentioned Hillary, and Biden earlier; you do know Mr Trump was a liberal democrat that gave money to them prior to becoming a birther and his instant conversion to the republican party. Think about it for a moment and keep your eyes on the prize. Sorry I got a little long winded, but I care about my fellow Americans and those who come here legally. I am a retired disabled veteran who was injured on active duty, so I wrote this response to you as a patriot and a proud American, much love!