Why do so many of us know “This Land was Made for You and Me,” a song that Woody Guthrie wrote in February 1940 — more than 85 years ago? This classic folk song has permeated American culture so deeply and consistently across space and time — but why? Maybe it’s because of Guthrie’s distinct style and reputation for rambling. Or maybe it’s because the song originated as something of a diss track to God Bless America. And notwithstanding its cultural prominence, this song about land currently occupied by the United States of America entirely omits Indigenous people.

Please note that this episode features Woody Guthrie interview clips where he uses the harmful descriptor colored in reference to Black and Indigenous people.

For more information, and full transcripts, visit  ...