The City that Sold America is a fascinating documentary series that delves into the history and influence of the advertising industry in America. The show is produced by Amazon Add-on and stars Tom Burrell, Bruce DuMont, and Myiti Sengstacke Rice, who all provide valuable insights and perspectives on the marketing industry.
The show is divided into eight episodes and each one focuses on a different aspect of the advertising industry in America. From the role of advertising in shaping the culture of the country to the evolution of advertising technology over the years, The City that Sold America provides a comprehensive look at how advertising has impacted American society.
One of the key themes that emerges throughout the show is the power of advertising to shape public perception and influence behavior. This is evident from the very beginning of the series, as viewers are taken on a journey through the history of advertising in America. From the early days of print advertisements to the rise of radio and television ads, the show explores how advertising has evolved to become an integral part of modern society.
Another important aspect that the series explores is the impact of advertising on different communities, particularly minority groups. Tom Burrell, a former advertising executive who is featured prominently throughout the show, talks about his experiences as a Black man working in the industry during the 1960s and 1970s. He discusses how companies would often ignore or downplay the importance of marketing to minority audiences, which led to a lack of representation in advertising campaigns.
However, the show also highlights the ways in which advertising has been used to promote diversity and inclusion. Myiti Sengstacke Rice, a journalist and historian, speaks about the groundbreaking work of Black advertising executive, Tommie Smith, who used his position to create campaigns that celebrated African American culture and identity.
Beyond issues of race and identity, The City that Sold America also looks at the ways in which advertising has impacted other areas of American society, such as politics and the environment. The show features interviews with leading experts in these fields, who provide valuable insights into how advertising has influenced public opinion and shaped policy.
One of the most interesting aspects of the show is the way in which it uses historical footage and archival material to illustrate its points. Viewers are treated to clips of iconic advertisements from the past, as well as interviews with some of the most famous ad executives in history, including David Ogilvy and Leo Burnett.
Overall, The City that Sold America is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and impact of advertising in America. The show is well-produced and informative, with a range of different perspectives and opinions represented. Whether you're an advertising professional, a historian, or simply a curious viewer, you're sure to learn something new and intriguing from this fascinating series.
