April 12, 1943: Global Insights and American Wit with Wendell Willkie

What this episode covers

In this April 12, 1943, episode of <i>Information Please</i>, the program broadcasts live from Bushnell Memorial Hall in Hartford, Connecticut, during a remarkable war bond drive that raised over $200 million. Clifton Fadiman presides over an enthusiastic panel featuring regulars John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, Oscar Levant, and distinguished guest Wendell Willkie, the statesman, author, and 1940 presidential candidate. <br />This special episode celebrates Willkie’s new book <i>One World</i> and highlights his eloquent contributions across a wide range of topics—from American constitutional freedoms and historical quotations to famous abdications and literary soundscapes. The panelists tackle everything from Shakespeare and Gilbert &amp; Sullivan to outlaws in classical music and Connecticut inventors who transformed the world. <br />Willkie’s insightful remarks, particularly on international cooperation and democracy, lend a thoughtful and inspiring tone. With humor from Levant, sharp historical recall from Kieran and Adams, and the host’s lively moderation, the episode combines serious reflection with classic <i>Information Please</i> charm. <br />Tune in for a memorable hour of high intellect, wry banter, and patriotic spirit on <i>Information Please</i>!