"Nebergall makes a compelling case that Chicago’s unique ‘bravado’ culture—including pride in union membership and the belief that local voices deserved to be heard—was embedded in the content of its TV programming."——Mary Ann Watson, author of Defining Visions: Television and the American Experience in the 20th Century
Description
This Came to You from Chicago explores the unique traits, style, and practices of “Chicago Television” from World War II to the 1990s. Jason J. Nebergall traces how, unlike mainstream stations, city-based broadcasters, who often worked day jobs, provided a platform for underrepresented groups to share their perspectives and allowed citizens to experiment with storytelling, representation, and engagement. In analyzing the idea and follow-through of “to and from Chicagoans,” Nebergall also illuminates how Chicago Television promoted civic engagement, fostered a sense of belonging and solidarity among residents, and contributed to the evolution of technological advances through the artistic risks of local and independent producers.
This Came to You from Chicago presents an ideological framework that analyzes Chicago Television as being deeply rooted in the political beliefs of its creators. Issues involving labor rights, women’s liberation, the civil rights struggle, LGBTQ+ communities, and anti-capitalist activism appeared throughout the history of television in the Windy City. By bringing attention to the locality and widespread function of this programming system, Nebergall reveals how independent television developed with the vibrancy and diversity of Chicago’s cultural landscape and local advocacy for social justice.
About the Author
Jason J. Nebergall teaches courses in television, radio, and cinema history at DePaul University and Loyola University Chicago.
November 2026