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American Masters
DNA Discoveries Before Watson and Crick
James Watson and Francis Crick discovered DNA’s structure in 1953, but other scientists paved the way for them. Swiss chemist Friedrich Miescher isolated DNA in 1869, testing cell nuclei in pus. In 1944, Oswald Avery, Colin MacLeod and Maclyn McCarty’s study of pneumonia bacteria provided definitive evidence that DNA was the molecule of heredity.
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Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.
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Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
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52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
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Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors.
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Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther" series.
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Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
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Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
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Discover the secrets behind Edward Hopper’s most iconic and enigmatic works.
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El artista José Clemente Orozco (1883-1945) encabezó el movimiento muralista en México.
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Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.
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Trace the life and legacy of labor activist Cesar Chavez through music and the arts.
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Follow the 50-year career of First Amendment lawyer and legal expert Floyd Abrams.