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American Masters

When Hazel Scott was accused of communist ties

Season 39 Episode 1 | 4m 18s

When Hazel Scott's name appeared in "Red Channels," a book by former FBI agents accusing entertainers of affiliations with communism, she was determined to clear her name. Before the House Un-American Activities Committee, Scott wrote a 50-page statement declaring her innocence, but HUAC had already made up their minds about her.

Support for American Masters is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, AARP, Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Judith and Burton Resnick, Blanche and Hayward Cirker Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, Koo and Patricia Yuen, Lillian Goldman Programming Endowment, Seton J. Melvin, Thea Petschek Iervolino Foundation, Anita and Jay Kaufman, The Philip and Janice Levin Foundation, Kate W. Cassidy Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, The Ambrose Monell Foundation, Ellen and James S. Marcus, The Charina Endowment Fund, The Marc Haas Foundation and public television viewers.
Extras
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American Masters
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American Masters
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American Masters
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American Masters
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Musician Hannah Mayree organizes workshops and performances celebrating the banjo's Black history.
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American Masters
John Goodman on "The Big Lebowski" and Jeff Bridges
Actor John Goodman talks about his work on the film, "The Big Lebowski."
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Follow Sudanese musician and ethnomusicologist Alsarah as she leads Alsarah and the Nubatones.
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American Masters
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Follow the meteoric rise of firebrand politician and activist Bella Abzug.
Preview: S40 E3 | 2:41
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American Masters
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In 1975, Bella Abzug went on the "Dinah!" show and questioned what was missing in our democracy.
Clip: S40 E3 | 0:55
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American Masters
How Bella Abzug elevated feminist causes while in office
While in Congress, Bella Abzug elevated feminist causes, including women's financial independence.
Clip: S40 E3 | 2:10
Watch • 1:40:13
American Masters
Bella! This Woman's Place Is in the House [ASL]
Follow the rise of politician and activist Bella Abzug. This contains on-screen ASL interpretation.
Special: 1:40:13

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