The Past, In Color

There's a tendency (at least in me and the man I married) to think of the more recent past (say, 1820-1940) in black and white or sepia tones, because almost all the photography and film from that era was. So it's really cool to see home movies of FDR's 1941 inauguration--in color. A good deal has been made of how carefully organized Roosevelt's public appearances were to make him appear healthier than he was: he walks (with assistance) to the podium to take the oath and give his speech. But watching, perhaps because of my current situation, all I could think of was what strength the man had to do this stuff: walk, and stand, and give the appearance of a man unharmed by a devastating disease, when in fact he was profoundly affected. Anyway: watch it. No sound, but color. And terrific hats.