Great Museums Season 1 Episode 11 American Soul: the DuSable Museum of African-American History

American Soul: the DuSable Museum of African-American History is the 11th episode of the first season of Great Museums. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the history and culture of African-Americans in Chicago and beyond. The focus of the episode is the DuSable Museum of African-American History, which is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago.

The DuSable Museum of African-American History is named after Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, who is considered to be the first non-native settler of Chicago. The museum was founded in 1961 by Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs and other members of the African-American community, who wanted to celebrate and preserve their culture and history. Over the years, the museum has become a beloved institution in Chicago, and has had a profound impact on the city's cultural landscape.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to the museum's impressive collection of artwork, artifacts, and documents related to African-American history and culture. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the history of African-Americans in Chicago to the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Viewers also learn about the many influential African-Americans who have called Chicago home, including Ida B. Wells, Langston Hughes, and Barack Obama.

One of the highlights of the episode is a visit to the museum's replica of a slave cabin, which gives viewers a glimpse into the harsh realities of slavery in the United States. Other exhibits focus on the contributions of African-Americans to science, technology, and the arts, and highlight the many achievements of African-Americans throughout history.

Viewers will also learn about the challenges faced by the DuSable Museum and other African-American cultural institutions in the United States. Despite their importance, these institutions have often struggled to secure funding and support from both government and private sources. In the face of these challenges, the DuSable Museum has remained a vital and beloved part of the Chicago community.

Overall, American Soul: the DuSable Museum of African-American History is a fascinating exploration of African-American culture and history, and a celebration of the important role played by institutions like the DuSable Museum in preserving and promoting that culture. Whether you're a Chicago native or simply interested in learning more about African-American history, this episode of Great Museums is not to be missed.