Harold's Old Time Radio: "Lest We Forget - The American Dream 47-05-22 03 The Bridge Builder"
Release Date: May 24, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: "The Bridge Builder"
Series: Lest We Forget - The American Dream
Introduction
In the episode titled "The Bridge Builder," part of the "Lest We Forget - The American Dream" series, Harold's Old Time Radio transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. This poignant drama delves into themes of discrimination, integrity, and the true essence of the American Dream within the academic setting of Hartley College. Starring Frederick March, the narrative weaves a compelling story that resonates with contemporary discussions on equality and justice.
Characters and Setting
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Professor Warren: A dedicated educator recently appointed as the Director of Admissions at Hartley College, grappling with institutional policies that conflict with his moral compass.
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Philip Harris: A talented 20-year-old engineering aspirant and war veteran whose Jewish heritage becomes the focal point of his admission challenge.
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Dean Hamilton: The pragmatic Dean of Hartley College, upholding the institution's controversial quota system.
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Richard Cartwright: The influential chairman of the board of trustees, embodying the entrenched interests that resist change.
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Miss Lloyd: An administrative assistant striving to maintain the college's policies.
Plot Overview
The Conflict Emerges
The story unfolds as Professor Warren interacts with Dean Hamilton and Miss Lloyd regarding the admission of Philip Harris. Despite Philip's exemplary academic records and aspirations to become an engineer dedicated to building infrastructure for the public good, he faces rejection due to Hartley College's quota system designed to limit minority admissions.
At [03:04], Professor Warren confronts the dilemma:
"However, there is a quota. There's a policy of the college that has to be followed... You'll have to tell Philip Harris that he is ineligible."
Philip challenges this decision, asserting his right to education regardless of his background:
"What's wrong with being a Jew?" [05:00]
Moral Struggle and Decision
Tormented by the injustice, Professor Warren seeks counsel with Richard Cartwright:
"A quota at Hartley is unfair. It's undemocratic." [07:44]
Cartwright offers a compromise, forcing Warren to choose between his principles and his position:
"I'll let this Harris kid in... From now on, you're to stick to your classroom." [08:16]
Despite the pressure, Warren's resolve hardens as he reflects on the true meaning of education and equality, inspired by classical philosophers and the words inscribed above the Hall of Learning:
"Know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." [10:00]
Resolution
In a bold move, Professor Warren decides to defy the college's policies. At the Board of Trustees meeting, he publicly advocates against the quota system, ensuring Philip Harris's admission and challenging the institution to uphold true American values of individual merit and equality.
Key Themes and Insights
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Discrimination and Quotas: The episode critically examines the detrimental impact of institutionalized quotas, highlighting how they undermine individual achievements and aspirations.
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Moral Integrity vs. Institutional Pressure: Professor Warren's internal conflict underscores the struggle between upholding personal ethics and conforming to systemic injustices.
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The American Dream: Through Philip Harris's determination to contribute to society by building bridges, the narrative reinforces the ideal that everyone, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
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Influence of Leadership: Richard Cartwright's resistance to change reflects how leadership can perpetuate outdated and discriminatory practices, challenging listeners to consider the role of authority in enacting social change.
Notable Quotes
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Professor Warren on Institutional Policies:
"It's a little late, though, isn't it? In this case, the boy's already been notified of his acceptance." [03:33]
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Philip Harris on Equality:
"I don't want to talk out of turns, sir, but it isn't right. Everyone's entitled to an education." [04:19]
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Dean Hamilton Defending the Quota:
"Perfectly fair arrangement. Every group receives representation in accordance with its number." [05:30]
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Professor Warren's Moral Declaration:
"The words inscribed on the rotunda... Know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." [10:00]
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Richard Cartwright's Ultimatum:
"Take it or leave it. For your own good, I advise you to take it." [08:26]
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Professor Warren's Final Stand:
"Everyone that asks leave to teach or learn may do so." [11:38]
Conclusion
"The Bridge Builder" serves as a timeless reminder of the ongoing struggle to align institutional practices with the foundational principles of equality and meritocracy. Through the compelling journey of Professor Warren and Philip Harris, Harold's Old Time Radio eloquently portrays the essence of the American Dream: the unwavering belief that every individual deserves the chance to contribute to society, free from prejudice and discrimination. This episode not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection on the values that continue to shape America today.
For more engaging stories from the Golden Age of Radio, tune in to Harold's Old Time Radio and revisit the timeless narratives that have shaped generations.