The Cavalcade of America
submitted by Larry Maupin

       During its eighteen-year run, this series underwent a couple of major changes in emphasis.  Although it always dealt in a patriotic way with historical American figures and events, its pre-war days were most distinguished by a series of biographies.  Featured among others were Daniel Boone, Stephen Foster, Charles Goodyear, Sam Houston, Robert E. Lee and Samuel Morse.

       After Pearl Harbor and the United States entry into World War II, the program placed itself solidly behind the war effort and presented stories of American involvement both foreign and domestic.  A show about Amelia Earhart was used as a means of praising the contributions of all American women in the cause of victory, and another focused on the bravery and accomplishments of the Merchant Marine.

       When the war was over the series went back to being primarily a prestige vehicle for the brightest stars of stage, screen and radio.  It had always attracted top-level talent.  Alfred Lunt and Lynne Fontanne made their radio debuts on it, each in a separate episode.  Raymond Massey portrayed Abe Lincoln, and Carl Sandburg produced and narrated an episode based on his own "Native Land."  Orson Welles and Clark Gable appeared on the show.

       Devoted to strict accuracy, the program utilized a panel of experts to conduct the selection and development of scripts.  The Du Pont Company, sponsor throughout the entire length of the series, made use of the memorable slogan "Better things for better living through chemistry."

       The program began October 9, 1935 and aired its final episode March 31, 1953.