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The Nicest Kids in Town

Matt Delmont, Author

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Welcome to The Nicest Kids in Town

The Nicest Kids in Town examines the early history of American Bandstand, one of the most popular and influential shows in the history of television. Counter to Dick Clark’s claim that he integrated American Bandstand in 1957, my research offers new evidence regarding how American Bandstand became racially segregated and continued to discriminate against black teenagers during its years in Philadelphia, 1952-1964.

This digital project is a companion to a forthcoming book from University of California Press (Spring 2012).  Click here to learn more about the book.

As you navigate this site, you will be able to view a wide range of evidence from both inside and outside of the archives, including advertisements, newspaper clippings, photographs from high school yearbooks, and American Bandstand memorabilia.  In addition to these still images, you will also be able to view clips from American Bandstand that are related to my argument.

Click here to begin The Nicest Kids in Town
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