– American Television
Television expresses American identity in profound and influential ways. From news to cartoons, sitcoms to drama, programs have reflected the issues and values—if not always the realities—of the eras that produced them. As a source of information, ideas, and shared experiences, television has also shaped how we understand the present and remember the past.
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Kermit the Frog, around 1970
The creation and alter ego of master puppeteer Jim Henson, Kermit the Frog is an American icon, recognized worldwide as the television star of Sesame Street and The Muppet Show.
For decades, Henson’s adorably zany cast of Muppet characters has entertained children and adults alike with music, comedy, and life lessons. Kermit served as a crusader for tolerance through his hit song “(It’s Not Easy) Being Green.”
The Lone Ranger’s Mask, 1950s
Clayton Moore wore this black mask as the star of The Lone Ranger (ABC, 1949–57), a Western about a Texas Ranger who disguises his identity to fight crime on the frontier.
Accompanied by his trusted Indian friend, Tonto, and packing a gun loaded with silver bullets, the Lone Ranger dispensed justice while respecting the laws of society. Week after week, he thrilled fans with his heroic adventures, virtuous conduct, and the stirring call to his white stallion: “Hi-yo Silver, away!”
Archie Bunker’s Chair, 1970s
The popular and controversial sitcom All in the Family (CBS, 1971–79) broke with convention and shattered taboos by depicting, in the words of creator Norman Lear, “real people dealing with real issues.”
Social conflicts of the day played out in the Bunkers’ living room as the bigoted Archie clashed with his liberal son-in-law and his wife Edith struggled to keep the peace. With sharp but affectionate humor, the show exposed the flaws and complexities of one American family.
M*A*S*H Signpost, 1970s
Pointing the way to anyplace but here, this prop from M*A*S*H (CBS, 1972–83) reflects the characters’ humorous efforts to cope with the horrors of war.
The show, set in an army field hospital during the Korean War, debuted in the final years of the Vietnam War, and its antiwar theme resonated with many Americans. Its talented ensemble cast and compelling storylines earned M*A*S*H lasting popularity. The final program, broadcast on February 28, 1983, was the most-watched series episode in television history.
60 Minutes Stopwatch, 1970s–90s
The most-watched news program in American history, 60 Minutes (CBS, 1968– ) revolutionized television journalism with its pioneering newsmagazine format.
As conceived by producer Don Hewitt, the show includes a mix of breaking news, investigative reports, interviews, and commentary. The famous opening logo, a ticking stopwatch, also marks time between segments. This watch was used on the program until the late 1990s, when it was replaced by a computer graphic.
Kunta Kinte’s Manacles, 1977
Actor LeVar Burton wore these prop manacles in the miniseries Roots (ABC, 1977), a dramatic portrayal of slavery as experienced by several generations of one family.
Based on Alex Haley’s autobiographical novel, Roots began with Kunta Kinte, an African youth brought to America as a slave in the 1700s, and ended with the emancipation of his descendants during the Civil War. Watched by more than 100 million people, it was a significant departure from programs that had traditionally relegated blacks to minor, stereotyped roles.