A topical examination of the cultural-historical process ofthe creation, dissemination, and consumption of mass or popular culture and the anaylsis of popular culture as a defining characteristic of Americans. Specific focus will be upon the evolution of modern electronic forms of communication in the 20th century; the interrelationships between popular, elite, and folk culture will be explored. Topics include: popular genre literature, mass movements, celebrities and heroes, and film, radio, and television.