A Tribute To Studs Terkel

31 October 2008

The Last Touch... by Alan Hall

Studs Terkel, who died on the last day of October 2008, was one of the most generous and humane men - cultured, politically engaged and great company. He was America's most eminent oral historian, author of numerous books including Working and the Pullitzer Prize-winning The Good War and a great broadcaster - one of the best men of the 20th century.

In 2005 he graciously allowed me to visit him at home in Chicago, despite having only recently undergone heart surgery, and record over two hours of interview that touched on his work, his undiminished 'radical conservatism' and his much-missed wife of sixty years, Ida. A radio portrait, called Studs Terkel - The Last Touch, was broadcast on Resonance FM, Chicago Public Radio's Re:sound and ABC Radio National.

To listen to Studs Terkel - The Last Touch go to the Audio Gallery section of this website.