The Curtain Torn is inspired by the life of Robert Carter III, of Nomini Hall Plantation on the Northern Neck of Virginia. Inheriting one of the greatest slave empires in the country, Robert Carter III never felt comfortable with owning other human beings. However, it was not until he almost died and claimed to have talked to Jesus that he felt compelled to free his slaves, over 500 in total. While his decision caused him much pain and heartache when family and friends turned against him, he remained faithful to his commitment and freed more slaves than any individual in American History.