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Studs Terkel

Studs Terkel's books of oral history have earned him a reputation as the foremost chronicler of ordinary Americans. Stephen Sackur meets Studs Terkel in Chicago.

In his 95 years, Studs Terkel has worked as an actor, a musician and even as a radio broadcaster blacklisted during the McCarthy era. But it's his books of oral history that have earned him his reputation as the foremost chronicler of the lives, hopes and beliefs of ordinary Americans. His book Working, first published in 1974, was a detailed look at people's jobs and lives. Other books have tackled race, the Great Depression and the Second World War. So why does he say he's horrified at the 'forgetfulness' of America, and why does he believe it's so crucial to connect the past with the present? Stephen Sackur meets Studs Terkel at his home in Chicago and asks him whether he still feels hopeful about his country.

30 minutes

Last on

Mon 4 Feb 2008 23:30GMT

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