This interview begins with a clip of one of Dick Gregory’s performances, where he talks about nonviolence and Native Americans. Studs Terkel introduces his guest as an observer, explaining that comedians are the best observers in society. Gregory offers extended analogies to communicate his views on a variety of topics, including the Vietnam War, race relations, segregation, human rights, and urban renewal. [The date is unclear, but it has to be after 1970, since the Kent State Shootings were mentioned]

Denise Levertov discusses her poetry regarding non-violent protest and using Chuck Matthei's life as a non-violent draft resister for inspiration. Chuck Matthei details his experiences as a draft resister and beliefs in this movement.

On December 3, 1970, Debbie Sweet won the Young Americans Service Award. She talks about what happened when she met President Nixon to receive her award. Upon shaking his hand, Sweet told President Nixon that she didn't believe in his sincerity in giving out the awards until he got us (America) out of Vietnam. Her encounter with President Nixon made headlines around the world.

Photographer David Scherman talks with Studs Terkel about the stories that photos can tell, famous photographers, and the book “The Best of Life,” which Scherman edited. A recording of the song “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” by the Weavers is played.

Members of John F. Kennedy's administration are featured in David Halberstam's book, "The Best and the Brightest." Halberstam points out the irony of the title, as some in the administration may not have been the best or the brightest.  As a result of their bad decisions, America got tangled up in the Vietnam War.*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations

Dave Dellinger, activist, discusses his book, "More Power Than We Know: The People's Movement Toward Democracy." Dillinger describes his thoughts and past experiences with non-violent protesting. He recalls his experiences with the police during Vietnam War protests and the Trialrial of the Chicago . He also discusses Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other well-known protesters.

Daniel Ellsberg, political activist and former military analyst, discuses his release of the Pentagon Papers and his thoughts on how the Vietnam War played out. He also discusses what he believes the next war could look like and how America, and the world, would be affected by nuclear war.

*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Interviewing former government official, Vietnam War opponent, and political activist Daniel Ellsberg. Program includes an excerpt of a 1980 interview with Ellsberg. Includes a test tone lasting about 20 seconds. Content Warning: This conversation has the presence of outdated, biased, offensive language. Rather than remove this content, we present it in the context of twentieth-century social history to acknowledge and learn from its impact and to inspire awareness and discussion.

Daniel Ellsberg, political activist, discusses the creation and use of the atomic and hydrogen bombs. He discusses his family including how his son helped him leak the Pentagon Papers and has since protested with him, including being jailed. He also talks about his father who quit his job over the creation of the hydrogen bomb and how his father's choice helped him to decide to release the Pentagon Papers.

Writer Dan Wakefield discusses his book “Supernation at Peace and War” with Studs Terkel. Further discussion is had over civil unrest, draft dodging, and social injustices during the Vietnam War.