"I'm An American" NBC radio broadcasts

Identifier: irn615676
Language of Description: English
Level of Description: Collection
Source: EHRI Partner

Web Source

https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/irn615676

Acquisition

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum purchased digital copies of these sound recordings from the Library of Congress in March 2018.

Scope and Content

I’M AN AMERICAN premiered in 1940 on the eve of WWII. The NBC radio broadcast was spearheaded by the Immigration and Naturalization Service of the U.S. Department of Labor to foster a “deeper consciousness of the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship and more tolerance for fellow american of all birthplaces”. The weekly program featured distinguished foreign-born citizens discussing their naturalization process, the meaning of “democracy” and reminding all Americans of the value/privilege of U.S. citizenship. Sound recordings of I’M AN AMERICAN are available from the NBC Radio Collection in the Library of Congress.

Genre

Collection

This description is derived directly from structured data provided to EHRI by a partner institution. This collection holding institution considers this description as an accurate reflection of the archival holdings to which it refers at the moment of data transfer.

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Displaying items 1 to 20 of 57

I'm An American -- Hans Kindler
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615675
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On May 11, 1940, Kindler spoke with James L. Houghteling, Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization Service, on the the NBC radio broadcast "I'm An American" about his experience in the United States. The two men discuss American ideals of democracy and the value of the foreign-born citizens. Houghteling asks Kindler about antagonism to assimilate. Kindler states America impoverishes itself when immigrants are asked or expected to forget their cultural backgrounds and traditions; because possibilities of mutual understanding and contributions are being thrown away. Hans Kindler also ex...
I'm An American -- Luise Rainer
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615678
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On May 18, 1940 Luise Rainer spoke with William Carmichael, of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, on the NBC radio broadcast about her experience as an American. The leading lady reveals why she, and many other immigrants, choose to exchange one homeland for another. Carmichael informs his guest President Roosevelt declared the third Sunday in May “I Am An American Day”. Rainer recites The Oath of Allegiance and explains her realization of the vow. Luise Rainer says, “Perhaps it takes a new American coming from a land of not so much liberty to understand what the National Anthem me...
I'm An American -- Anton Lang
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615679
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On May 25, 1940, Dr. Anton Lang spoke with Marshall E. Dimock, Second Assistant Secretary of Labor, on the NBC radio broadcast about the power of democracy. The two men discuss America’s resilience and its rating of “the happiest country in the world”. Lang reveals to Dimock, that unlike America, status and opportunities in Europe are fixed. To him and many other migrants, life in America can bring achievement and freedom. Dr. Lang states democracy is like religion because it is an experience. He says naturalized citizens are eager to learn new ways of living, however Americans criticize an...
I'm An American -- Charles Pergler
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615680
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On June 1, 1940, Dr. Charles Pergler shared his thoughts about immigration with the Chairmen of the Board of Review for the Immigration and Naturalization Service, Ralph Stewart, on the NBC radio broadcast. The gentlemen discussed Pergler’s duality of foreign birth and upbringing in America. Stewart describes emigration as “a stranger in the gates”. He urges Americans to have tolerance and patience for foreign-born citizens as they assimilate. He gives an example of close-knit immigrant communities who do not learn English and have no connection to American life except during election seaso...
I'm An American -- Thomas Mann
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615681
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On June 8, 1940 Marshall E. Dimock, Second Assistant Secretary of Labor, interviewed Thomas Mann about his faith in America and democracy on the NBC radio broadcast. Mann reveals he is pleased with his decision to become a naturalized citizen and relieved to continue his life’s work in “peace and freedom”. The two men discuss strategies of enemies of democracy. The author suggests spreading ideals of democracy to the youth through technological propaganda. Dimock asks if certain freedoms should be restricted in America. Thomas Mann describes the current events in Europe as an evil force tha...
I'm An American -- Attilio Piccirilli
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn615682
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On June 15, 1940, Attilio Piccirilli spoke with Marshall E. Dimock, Second Assistant Secretary of Labor, on the NBC radio broadcast about being a naturalized citizen for 50 years. Piccirilli tells Dimock he forgot he was born abroad. He confesses he feels like a foreigner in his birth country because he thinks and speaks like an American. Attilio Piccirilli shares with Dimock his first thoughts of America as his boat docked in the harbor. He explains why had to become an American immediately and why he will forever be tied to the land. Attilio Piccirilli says the greatest gift America has g...
I'm An American -- Igor Sikorsky
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620772
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On August 3, 1940 Igor Sikorsky was interviewed by Dr. Henry B. Hazard of the U.S. Department of Justice about his inventions and their use in defending democracy. Sikorsky admits his flying machines have been used to destroy humanity. The industrial designer blames the misuse on the human "ill will." He urges Americans to think of the airplane as a defender of human progress and unity -- not warfare. Sikorsky believes aviation can only reach its full potential in America, where scientists and inventors freely develop ideas without fear or coercion. He adds, “It takes a naturalized citizen ...
I'm An American -- Louis Adamic
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620780
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On August 10, 1940, Louis Adamic spoke with Mr. Shawnessy, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Service about his hopes for immigrants coming to America. The passionate political writer believes that many newcomers arrive with a common purpose of freedom and opportunity; therefore they possess the American spirit long before they arrive. Adamic goes on to define and explain “Americanism”. He believes immigration to America has drained Europe of those “who had the will to defend freedom in their homelands.” The author also warns it is not enough to be appalled by the actions of Hitler and ...
I'm An American -- Leopold Stokowski
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620784
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On November 17, 1940 Leopold Stokowski discussed with Earl G. Harrison, Director of the Alien Registration at the Department of Justice, how music can help solve the problems of the world. The Symphony conductor shares his immigration story and first impression of America. Stokowski reveals he left Europe because he rejected their outdated approach to music. He also explains why it is important to let go of old ideas that no longer work, and live according to the needs of today. Stokowski explains why and how he became involved with the All American Youth Orchestra. The program closes with ...
I'm An American -- Konrad Bercovici
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620789
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On November 24, 1940 Konrad Bercovici spoke with Bern Berard, Executive Assistant of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, about the necessity of Americanization for all Americans. Ms. Berard suggests all native Americans should take the naturalization test. Bercovici agrees. He recalls a time during WWI where Americanization was taught in Romania. He speculates if it had continued there may not be as many troubles plaguing Europe today. The author claims immigrants resist the melting pot because they cling to their backgrounds, until they find a place in America like their native lan...
I'm An American -- Emil Ludwig
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620792
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On December 1, 1940 Emil Ludwig spoke with Harry Blee, Assistant District Director of the Los Angeles Immigration and Naturalization Service, about the ideal characteristics and customs of Americans. Ludwig shares a story about the democratic views he had at a young age. He reveals he left his homeland 35 years ago seeking liberty. The famed biographer explains the difference of working, living and being in public spaces in Europe. He reveals he finds enjoyment in the simple things of American life. He closes the program praising the spirit of America’s youth. Emil Ludwig (b. Emil Cohn) was...
I'm An American -- Walter Damrosch
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620794
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On December 23, 1940 Walter Damrosch discussed with Alexander Holtzoff, Special Assistant to the Attorney General of the U.S. Department of Justice, how music complements democracy. The famed conductor shares with listeners his family’s immigration story. Damrosch claims music is an universal language that can create a brotherhood. He uses Christmas music as an example of uplifting the spirits of people in war-torn countries. Holzoff refers to America as “a composite of nations.” Damrosch agrees and mentions many different Christmas songs can be heard across the country in various languages...
I'm An American -- Guiseppe Bellanca
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620815
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On December 15, 1940 Giuseppe Bellanca spoke with Ugo Carusi, Executive Assistant to the Attorney General, about life in America for newcomers. Bellanca reveals that Americans want immigrants to assimilate quickly. He says the conversion could cause the nation to miss out on major contributions, that could propel its status to the best in the world. The two men discuss totalitarian claims of democracy failing in the modern world. Bellanca suggests educating all Americans in democratic ideals. He praises American individuality and the rejection of a dictator. Bellanca warns man’s ingenuity i...
I'm An American -- Gaetono Salvemini
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620816
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On January 5, 1941 Gaetano Salvemini spoke with Henry Nichols, of the Boston Immigration and Naturalization Service, about the opportunities he’s found in America. Salvemini shares his journey to America. The college professor reveals access to information from the library as the biggest difference difference in European and American colleges. Traveling across the country without question, the freedom to print without censorship, and choosing the news he wants to listen to are a few of the reasons why he loves his adopted country. He suggests that all forms of government are imperfect becau...
I'm An American -- Béla Schick
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620817
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On January 19, 1941 Dr. Béla Schick discussed democracy and healthcare with Dr. Henry B. Hazard of the US. Department of Justice. Schick claims, “Only once you have seen the effects of war on children can one understand what it really causes.” He refers to stories of starving Austrian refugee children being brought to Hungary during WWI. He compares the environments of minors living in war-torn Europe and tranquil America. He explains the reason for growing medical advancement in America as opposed to Europe. Dr. Schick warns that although the United States is safe, has resources, high livi...
I'm An American -- Guy Lombardo
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620818
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On February 2, 1941 Guy Lombardo spoke with Henry B. Hazard of the US. Department of Justice about his experience as an American. He describes the American attitude and nightlife. The band leader says, “In America you don’t have to be upper class to hear good music.” Lombardo tells how and why he immigrated to the United States. He also reveals he, and all his band members, became naturalized and voted together. Lombardo closes the program by stating that because Americans like to laugh, sing and dance, they would never submit to a dictator. Guy Lombardo (b. Gaetano Alberto Lombardo) was bo...
I'm An American -- Rabbi Stephen Wise
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620819
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On December 8, 1940 Rabbi Stephen Wise spoke with Marshall E. Dimock, Second Assistant Secretary of Labor, about America being a safe haven for freedom loving people who have been displaced by their native country. Rabbi Wise tells Mr. Dimock he doesn’t believe birthplace makes someone an American. He believes common faith and ways of thinking are the secret to American unity. Rabbi Wise refers to the “new American” as a true patriot with the pioneering spirit of America’s forefathers. He shares his thoughts on the struggles democracy faces in the world. He suggests the current world crisis...
I'm An American -- Ludwig Bemelmans
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620820
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On February 9, 1941 Ludwig Bemelmans spoke with William H. Marshall, Assistant District Director of Immigration at Ellis Island, about his American experience. Bemelmans begins by telling Mr. Marshall why he’s proud to be an American. The two men discuss Ludwig’s first impression and misconceptions. The author states the difference between German and American culture is discipline. He goes on to tell a humorous story to strengthen his claim. The author explains why naturalized citizens boast of their native land, but are still loyal to America. He gives his opinion on the current state of E...
I'm An American -- Paul Muni
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620821
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On February 23, 1941 Paul Muni, spoke with Marshall E. Dimock, Second Assistant Secretary of Labor, about the importance of democracy. Muni shares he and his family’s first impression of the United States with Mr. Dimock. He explains why it is possible for immigrants to never become citizens. Muni encourages state and federal agencies to become more involved in immigrant’s talents and interests. He emphatically states, “Democracy has never been more vital than it is today.” The actor believes that although it is his job to carry out the vision of the writer, all writings today should be roo...
I'm An American -- Gregory Zilboorg
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- irn620822
- English
- Updated 1 year ago
On March 2, 1941 Gregory Zilboorg shared his thoughts about the rise in European immigrants to America with William H. Marshall, Assistant District Director of Immigration at Ellis Island. Dr. Zilboorg states that foreign and naturalized citizens make up more than a quarter of the American population. He explains how the the Nazi regime is exiling intellectuals, doctors, teachers, scientists, scholars, artists, etc. who oppose them. The psychiatrist states the “Old World is casting out those it cannot feed spirituall.” Dr. Zilboorg believes the needs of refugees can be met because there is ...