Aurora Mardiganian was sold into sexual slavery during the Armenian genocide, but she escaped and later became a silent film star in the United States.
“A survivor's journey from bloodshed to the red carpet”
Synopsis
Aurora Mardiganian was sold into sexual slavery during the Armenian genocide, but she escaped and later became a silent film star in the United States.
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Synopsis
Aurora Mardiganian, born into a wealthy family in Eastern Anatolia, survives the Armenian genocide from 1915 to 1917. After enduring a death march and escaping sexual slavery, she finds refuge with a Kurdish family and eventually reaches the United States. There, she becomes an actress and tells her story through the silent film Auction of Souls. Aurora's autobiography, Ravished Armenia, raises awareness of the genocide. Her experiences shape her role in advocating for her community while she faces personal trauma.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See Aurora Mardiganian's powerful story of survival.
- Meet the Armenian military leader Andranik Ozanian.
- Find out how Mardiganian became a legal guardian of journalist Henry Leyford Gates.
Did You Know
- Aurora Mardiganian was born into a wealthy family in Eastern Anatolia.
- She was sold into sexual slavery and escaped by diving into a river.
- Mardiganian published her autobiography, Ravished Armenia, under the name 'Aurora.'
- The film Auction of Souls was made in 1919 and features Mardiganian in the lead role.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed Aurora's Sunrise?
Aurora's Sunrise was directed by Inna Sahakyan.
What is the original title of Aurora's Sunrise in Armenian?
The original title of Aurora's Sunrise in Armenian is Արշալույսի լուսաբացը.
What was the name of Aurora Mardiganian's autobiography?
Aurora Mardiganian's autobiography is titled Ravished Armenia.
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