A Biography of America

A Biography of America is a video instructional series on American history for college and high school classrooms and adult learners -- 26 half-hour video programs, coordinated books, and Web site -- Produced by WGBH Boston in cooperation with the Library of Congress and the National Archives and Records Administration.

Especially appropriate for The Class of Nonviolence are:

8. The Reform Impulse
The Industrial Revolution has its dark side, and the tumultuous events of the period touch off intense and often thrilling reform movements. Professor Masur presents the ideas and characters behind the Great Awakening, the abolitionist movement, the women's movement, and a powerful wave of religious fervor.

17. Capital and Labor
The making of money pits laborers against the forces of capital as the twentieth century opens. Professor Miller introduces the miner as the quintessential laborer of the period -- working under grinding conditions, organizing into unions, and making a stand against the reigning money man of the day, J. Pierpont Morgan.

19. A Vital Progressivism
Professor Martin offers a fresh perspective on Progressivism, arguing that its spirit can be best seen in the daily struggles of ordinary people. In a discussion with Professors Scharff and Miller, the struggles of Native Americans, Asian Americans, and African Americans are placed in the context of the traditional white Progressive movement. 

 The textbooks and instructor guides are for sale; the videos themselves are small (barely adequate for classroom use) but these can be purchased as well.