| "The Birthplace of Civilization" | |
|---|---|
| Fargo episode | |
| Episode no. | Season 4 Episode 5 |
| Directed by | Dana Gonzales |
| Written by | |
| Featured music | Jeff Russo |
| Cinematography by | Pete Konczal |
| Editing by | Regis Kimble |
| Production code | XFO04005 |
| Original air date | October 18, 2020 |
| Running time | 60 minutes |
| Guest appearances | |
| |
"The Birthplace of Civilization" is the fifth episode of the fourth season of the American anthology black comedy–crime drama television series Fargo. It is the 35th overall episode of the series and was written by series creator Noah Hawley and producer Francesca Sloane and directed by Dana Gonzales. It originally aired on FX on October 18, 2020.
The season is set in Kansas City, Missouri from November 1950 to early 1951, and follows two crime syndicates as they vie for control of the underground. One of these is Loy Cannon, the head of a crime syndicate made up of black migrants fleeing the Jim Crow South who have a contentious relationship with the Italian Kansas City mafia. In the episode, the mob war between the Cannon Limited and the Fadda Family escalates, while Deafy is closing in on Zelmare and Swanee.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 0.74 million household viewers and gained a 0.2 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received mostly positive reviews from critics, who praised the ending and character development, although some still expressed criticism for the pacing and writing.