history

This documentary examines the historical role of the Jesuits, formally the Society of Jesus, founded in 1540 by Ignatius of Loyola during the Counter-Reformation, and their involvement in global education, missionary work, and political influence across centuries. It covers the order's expansion to over 16,000 members worldwide by the 21st century, establishment of 28 universities in the United States including Georgetown in 1789, and suppression by Pope Clement XIV in 1773 followed by restoration in 1814. The production traces Jesuit missions in the Americas from the 16th century, contributions to sciences through figures like Roger Boscovich, and engagements in social justice issues such as civil rights and immigration reform. Through archival footage, interviews with historians, and analyses of Vatican documents, the 90-minute film from around 2017 discusses the order's adaptation to modern pluralism and ongoing global apostolates, while addressing perceptions of secrecy in their organizational structure and historical diplomatic roles.

"American Jesuits: A History of Jesuitism in the United States" is a 2024 documentary produced by Adullam Films and directed by Christian J. Pinto that traces the establishment and activities of the Society of Jesus in North America from the colonial period to the present. It covers the arrival of Jesuit missionaries in the 16th and 17th centuries alongside European explorers, including figures like Pedro de Zúñiga in Florida and French Jesuits in New France, and their roles in education, such as founding Georgetown University in 1789 as the first Catholic institution of higher learning in the U.S. The film examines the order's suppression in 1773 by Pope Clement XIV and restoration in 1814, its growth to over 2,500 members by the mid-20th century, and involvement in social issues like immigration reform and civil rights. Through interviews, archival footage, and historical analysis, the 90-minute production highlights the Jesuits' contributions to American Catholicism, including 28 universities and dozens of high schools, while discussing their adaptation to U.S. pluralism and global missions, with over 16,000 members worldwide.