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Architecture, Design, Urban Planning
Living in Chicago, a city known around the world for its spirited and bold architecture, it's no surprise that Terkel devoted many programs to exploring the art of building and urban design.
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American History & Politics
Studs Terkel’s radio program spanned the early years of the Cold War through the turn of the Millennium and there are few major events or themes in American history and political life that he and his guests didn’t explore.
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Music - Classical Music & Opera
Studs Terkel had a unique knack for talking about classical music in a way that brought out the drama and thrill of performances and that illuminated connections with all the other genres of music he loved.
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Civil Rights
Armed with his microphone and recorder, Studs Terkel was a determined activist for civil rights in his city and his nation.
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Film
“There are certain characters you just don’t hit with a pie” - words of wisdom from Buster Keaton in conversation with Studs Terkel, 1960
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Travel & Culture - China
Terkel was fascinated by China's complex history and role in the world.
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Chicago
Studs Terkel loved Chicago, and Chicago loved and continues to love Studs.
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Cold War
The Cold War topic features interviews with historians, scientists, philosophers, activists, artists, working people and children offering perspectives on what it meant to live in the shadow of numbing concepts such as "mutually assured destruction," the atomic bomb and the Space Race.
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Comedy, Satire
The role of laughter and wit in society is present throughout the archive, in particular, the notion of laughter being a way to overcome hardship and inspire social struggles.
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Dance
Studs Terkel was fascinated by the evolution of dance in the 20th century.