"Free State of Jones," a 2016 American film set during the tumultuous era of the American Civil War, delves into the historical account of Newton Knight and his bold insurrection against Confederate forces in Jones County, Mississippi. Directed and penned by Gary Ross, the narrative is anchored by Matthew McConaughey's portrayal of Knight, with notable performances by Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mahershala Ali, and Keri Russell. The film intricately weaves the real-life events that transpired in Jones County, blending the factual with the cinematic to bring to light the lesser-known story of rebellion and resilience. Drawing inspiration from scholarly works, specifically "The Free State of Jones" by Victoria E. Bynum and "The State of Jones" by Sally Jenkins and John Stauffer, the film offers a layered exploration of a community's stand for justice and equality amidst the backdrop of a nation divided.