From Oklahoma City to New York City, American citizens bared their souls for the writers of the WPA. What remains is a rich collection of life histories from the era of the Great Depression.
On the 75th anniversary of the New Deal, Smithsonian Channel reveals the fascinating story of the writers and photographers who spread out across America to capture the soul of a people and create the first guides to each of our states. With rarely seen footage, photographs, and fascinating interviews, the film centers on the struggle between conflicting visions of America.
Soul Of A People is about nothing less than the creation of America’s first ever self-portrait.
Two of its most well know alumni, Studs Terkel (in one of his last interviews before his death) and Stetson Kennedy, are interviewed. Also featured are interviews with a diverse group of leading authors, poets, and historians, including Douglas Brinkley and David Bradley, who provide witty and heartbreaking insights into the Project. Award-winning actress Patricia Clarkson narrates.
