Day One: Saturday, August 3

AM: Overview and Introduction to the Thirties

(Video Tape: VHS.0236)

Brief Introduction by Henry Hampton followed by self-introductions of  the staff.

Terry Kay Rockefeller reviews how the project came into being; introduces Alan Brinkley.

Historian Alan Brinkley presents some questions and themes about the1930's and outlines some key phases of the New Deal. He reviews the work of scholars who stress the distinctiveness of the era as well as those emphasizing its continuity.

Followed by Q&A.

Vincent Harding reflects on what the makers of "Eyes on the Prize" can bring to a documentary about the Depression. Harding suggests that the producers stress the role of ordinary people, not just famous men and women.

Followed by Q&A.

Filmmaker Leo Seltzer presents three of his films, Hunger March (1931), Hunger March (1932) and Bonus March (1932) [NOT SHOWN ON VIDEOTAPE]. He stresses their importance as primary sources and relevance to what is happening in the present.

Followed by Q&A.

PM: Show One: "Perilous Journey"

Video Tape: VHS.0237

Q&A with Leo Seltzer concludes

Historian Michael McGerr examines American life during the "prosperity decade" of the 1920's.  He sees the period as a reaction to the reforms of the Progressive Era characterized by a resurgence of individualism and the rise of consumerist pressures that ultimately proved unsustainable.   

Followed by Q&A.

Professor Zaragosa Vargas presents his research into the lives of over 400 Mexican-American (mostly Tejano) families in Detroit between 1917 and 1930.  Rising to become a symbol of economic progress in the 1920's, the Depression brought them hostility, reduced wages, lost jobs and even forced repatriation.

Business historian David Lewis reviews eight key moments in the life and career of Henry Ford.

Dave Moore remembers the working conditions and treatment of workers at Ford's Rouge River plant during the Depression.  He also tells the story of his involvement with the Unemployed Councils and the United Auto Workers.

Followed by Q&A.