Cavalcade of America: DuPont's Pioneering Anthology Drama

In the golden age of American radio, one program stood out as a shining example of corporate-sponsored entertainment with a purpose - Cavalcade of America. Sponsored by the DuPont chemical company, this anthology drama series captivated audiences for nearly two decades, from its debut in 1935 to its final television broadcast in 1957.

What set Cavalcade of America apart was its unique blend of historical dramatizations, humanitarian themes, and subtle product placement. Rather than simply advertising DuPont's products, the series aimed to improve the company's public image and associate its brand with American ingenuity, progress, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Series Overview and Creation

Cavalcade of America was the brainchild of Roy S. Durstine, the creative director of the Batten, Barton, Durstine & Osborn advertising agency. In the early 1930s, DuPont found itself in a public relations crisis following the Nye Committee investigations, which accused the company of profiteering and encouraging an arms race during World War I.

Durstine proposed the creation of an anthology drama series that would showcase DuPont's commitment to American progress and innovation, using the company's motto, "Maker of better things for better living through chemistry," as a guiding principle. The series would dramatize historical events and the lives of notable figures, emphasizing themes of courage, initiative, and humanitarian achievement.

The first episode of Cavalcade of America aired on October 9, 1935, on CBS radio. Over the next 18 years, the series would move between CBS and NBC, eventually making the transition to television in 1952. Throughout its run, Cavalcade of America maintained a high level of production quality, with a rotating cast of Broadway and Hollywood stars, acclaimed writers such as Arthur Miller and Stephen Vincent Benét, and renowned directors like Robert Stevenson and William A. Seiter.

Notable Episodes and Storylines

One of the hallmarks of Cavalcade of America was its ability to bring history to life through compelling dramatizations. The series covered a wide range of topics, from the American Revolution and the Civil War to the lives of notable inventors, scientists, and social reformers.

In 1940, the series dedicated an entire episode to the launch of DuPont's new product, nylon hosiery. Titled "N-Day," the episode featured a "typical" housewife interviewing a DuPont researcher, who extolled the virtues of the new synthetic fabric. The episode was a resounding success, with thousands of women lining up to purchase the first batch of nylon stockings the following day.

Other notable episodes included dramatizations of the life of Abraham Lincoln, the invention of the telegraph by Hiram Sibley, and the humanitarian work of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. These episodes not only entertained listeners but also educated them about the people and events that shaped American history.

Cast and Crew

Cavalcade of America boasted an impressive roster of talent, both in front of and behind the microphone. The series featured a rotating cast of renowned actors, including Walter Huston, Cary Grant, Ronald Reagan, and Orson Welles, among others.

The writing staff was equally impressive, with acclaimed playwrights and screenwriters such as Arthur Miller, Stephen Vincent Benét, Carl Sandburg, and **Robert Sherwood contributing scripts. The series also employed a team of experienced directors, including Robert Stevenson, Laslo Benedek, and William A. Seiter, who brought the historical stories to life with cinematic flair.

Behind the scenes, Cavalcade of America was produced by a talented group of individuals, including Arthur Pryor, Louis Mason, and Homer Fickett, who oversaw the show's production and ensured its high production values.

Impact and Reception

Cavalcade of America was a groundbreaking program that pioneered the use of anthology drama for corporate advertising. By dramatizing stories of American achievement and progress, the series was able to subtly promote DuPont's brand and its commitment to improving the lives of Americans through innovation and technology.

The series was widely praised for its educational and inspirational content, with many episodes earning critical acclaim and prestigious awards, including the Peabody Award. Cavalcade of America was also recognized for its historical accuracy, with the series employing a historian, Frank Monaghan, to ensure the authenticity of its scripts.

However, the series was not without its critics. Some listeners pointed out historical inaccuracies in the dramatizations, such as the use of anachronistic technology or the inclusion of songs that were written after the events depicted. Nevertheless, Cavalcade of America remained a popular and influential program throughout its run, captivating audiences with its unique blend of entertainment and corporate messaging.

Legacy and Influence

Cavalcade of America left an indelible mark on the history of American radio and television. The series pioneered the use of anthology drama for corporate advertising, setting a precedent that would be followed by other programs, such as The United States Steel Hour and General Electric Theater.

Beyond its commercial impact, Cavalcade of America also played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of American history and the role of corporations in society. By dramatizing the stories of notable figures and events, the series helped to cement the legacy of these individuals and their contributions to the nation's progress.

The series' influence can still be felt today, with its emphasis on historical storytelling and corporate social responsibility continuing to resonate with audiences. Cavalcade of America remains an important example of the power of radio and television to educate, inspire, and shape public opinion, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by scholars and fans of old-time radio alike.