Episode 221: Back to the Future (1985)

America at 250 Episode 6: "Future Boy: 1985's Back to the Future as a primary source"  Gwen asked to chat about 1985's Back to the Future for her podcast segment and I was glad to oblige considering it is one of my all-time favorites.  The 1985 movie could've been incredibly hokey but the recipe of writers, director, actors and special effects makes it a near-perfect contemporary classic.  But what can it tell us about the society it was made for in the 1980s?  This is the sixth episode of a special season of the Everything is a Primary Source where, in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, American pop culture is examined for historical value and for connection to the founding of the country in July of 1776.  I honestly feel foolish for saying it was a stretch connecting the Declaration of Independence to Back to the Future considering its signing is one of two events Doc Brown uses to illustrate the capabilities of his time machine.  However, I like Gwen's take on the challenge even better.Teaching resources and supplements available soon at everything-history.com/america250This episode is brought to you by iCivics and their new educational game, Investigation Declaration.#podcast #popculture #backtothefuture #80smovies #1980s