Radio in Peace and War

Before the emergence of television, broadcasts of live drama, comedy, music and news were brought to millions of households by the medium of radio. With the United States' entry into World War II, Americans discovered that radio could serve not only as a distraction from the horrors of war but as a valuable weapon against the Axis powers.

ON THE AIR (1937): This educational film produced by Jam Handy explains how radio waves bring a concert by famed violinist David Rubinoff and his orchestra into homes all over the country. Rubinoff's performances were a popular segment on The Chase and Sanborn Hour from 1931 to 1938.

RADIO AT WAR! (1944): Two teenage ham radio enthusiasts are drafted into World War II. They quickly discover that their peacetime hobby can save lives on the battlefield.

VOICE OF VICTORY (1944): This short subject sponsored by the Hallicrafters Company details the construction and use of the new mobile communications unit SCR-299. Featuring the most powerful radio transmitter then known, the SCR-299 played an indispensable role in the Allied victory on D-Day.

BEHIND YOUR RADIO DIAL (1948): Famed radio announcer Ben Grauer narrates a tour of NBC's studios in both Rockefeller Center and Hollywood, including behind-the-scenes looks at such popular radio programs as The Fred Allen Show and Fibber McGee and Molly.

• documentary