The Radio Show Cavalcade of America pioneered the use of anthology drama for company voice advertising. A knock-off of sponsor E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Company's long running radio program, television's Cavalcade celebrated acts of individual initiative and achievement consistent with its sponsor's "Better things for better living" motto. The historical-documentary format especially fit the politically conservative DuPont Company, whose own history in America dated to 1802. The
Cavalcade frequently touched upon science and invention, often focusing its free enterprise subtext upon the early American republic. "Poor Richard," its first telecast 1 October 1952 dramatized the wit and inventiveness of Benjamin Franklin. Developed from a back catalog of radio plays judged to have "picture qualities," the drama sent the "old and obstinate" Franklin to delay American surrender talks with the British, thereby allowing General George Washington
to escape capture to fight another day. The denouement found Franklin "on his knees praying for Liberty and Peace and the ability to deserve them." Other first season telecasts reprised Cavalcade favorites Samuel Morse in "What Hath God Wrought," electric motor inventor Thomas Davenport as "The Indomitable Blacksmith," Samuel Slater in "Slater's Dream" and Eli Whitney as "The Man Who Took A Chance."
For many viewers the Cavalcade of
America was history on the air. The shows weren't made to thrill and chill but all the episodes are interesting, however, and some are amazing.
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