Product ID: 1939RNNE
Control Number: 7497930
1939 Radio News 91 Episodes
1939 Radio News is a preserved compilation of real-time radio news broadcasts and commentary segments from the year 1939 — a watershed moment in world history. These authentic recordings provide a compelling, day-by-day account of how Americans and the world experienced the unfolding of historic events through the relatively new but rapidly dominant medium of radio. As tensions in Europe escalated into all-out war, and as domestic developments shaped life in the United States, 1939 Radio News captured the voices, tone, and urgency of the era’s journalism.
This collection is not a dramatized program but an archival chronicle of actual news broadcasts, preserving the sound and substance of history in the making.
The Stars
The broadcasts in 1939 Radio News feature some of the most trusted and recognizable voices in early American radio journalism, including H.V. Kaltenborn, Lowell Thomas, and Edward R. Murrow — whose reports from London would soon become iconic. These pioneering correspondents brought clarity and depth to unfolding global events, often delivering news with a steady gravity that helped define the voice of radio news for future generations.
Commentators and announcers from networks such as CBS and NBC are also heard, along with original station identifications and occasional live remotes that enhance the collection’s authenticity.
Key Dates
• All recordings originate from January to December 1939, a year marked by the formal beginning of World War II with Germany’s invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939.
• Other major events covered include the signing of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, the fall of Czechoslovakia, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s U.S. tour, FDR’s foreign policy responses, and early reports from the European front.
• The year also saw continued advancements in aviation, science, and the New Deal-era economy, which are reflected in some broadcasts.
Other Information
The 1939 Radio News collection preserves the urgency and uncertainty of a world on the brink of war. Many broadcasts include bulletins or urgent updates from overseas correspondents, particularly in the months leading up to and following the outbreak of war in Europe. The tone of the reporting is often grave but measured, reflecting both journalistic restraint and the technological limitations of early remote communication.
The news format of the time emphasized direct reporting, often with limited or no background sound, relying on the credibility of the broadcaster’s voice to convey the importance of the moment. The material also captures shifting public sentiment in the U.S., as the nation debated involvement in a growing global conflict.
This collection is invaluable for historians, educators, and OTR enthusiasts seeking to experience history as it was heard by millions of Americans. It is both a sonic time capsule and a powerful reminder of the role radio played in informing, connecting, and shaping public understanding during one of the most consequential years of the 20th century.
This collection comes preloaded on a USB stick, allowing you to easily transfer all episodes to the device of your choice. Enjoy seamless playback a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern convenience.
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99
Mice Price: $15.39
Length: 20
Width: 91
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
***** Item Detail Page End
***** Home
Blind Mice Order Center: 346 839-3150
Open 9 am - 4pm CST Monday-Friday
You have arrived!
Blind Mice Mega Mall - "The Mall with the Blind
In Mind!
Blind Mice Mega Mall is designed for use with screen reader and low vision software for visually impaired shoppers!
The Mice have built Blind Mice exclusivily for the Blind & Low Vision Community! The sighted have millions of web sites built for them...
Each store is an independent business owned and managed by a member of the Blind / Low Vision Community!
Please browse the great offerings from the merchants in Blind Mice Mega Mall
You will find great items and unique products for the Blind and Low Vision community.
Shop all the stores and check out just one time! The Mice make it easy to shop from all of our outstanding merchants!
Remember, the Merchants operating stores in Blind Mice Mega Mall are also part of the Blind and Low Vision Community so when you buy from them you are supporting the Blind and Low Vision Community directly!
Every purchase at Blind Mice Mega Mall benefits the Low Vision / Blind Community!
** **
Have a MICE Day! Make It Count Everyday!
You help the Blind Community every time you purchase from the merchants at Blind Mice Mega Mall
Every purchase made at Blind Mice Mega Mall gives back to the Blind and Visually Impaired Community!
Proceeds from sales fund the MouseHole Scholarship Program, the Cooking In The Dark Show and The Movie Vault!
Join the Today's Cheese Newsletter Here!