political and social views

A new historicist approach to F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" that analyzes several aspects of the classic novel in the context of American history and attitudes at the time the novel was written.

Traces the history of "Strange Fruit," a controversial ballad about a lynched African-American man hanging from a tree, popularized by jazz singer Billie Holiday in the 1940s.

Describes the early life and career of the founder and teacher of the Bruhaus and abstract painter.

Examines the seven debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas in 1858. Discusses how these two men and their ideas represented America's quandary over the purpose of a democracy, and that this dilemma would not only lead to the Civil War, but to conflicts throughout America's future.

Explores how many of Thomas Jefferson's decisions and policies during his presidency were influenced by the power of the slave states and his own views on slavery.

Presents thirty-one fireside chats given to the American people by Franklin D. Roosevelt during his presidency on problems facing the nation.

Explores how Nelson Mandela helped heal the divided nation of South Africa by supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.