Interviews - Obama Presidency Oral History

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Interviews Timeline Map
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    Career transition to the University of Chicago and involvement with the Obama Presidential Center siting Susan Sher
    11:35
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    Reflections on political career and the impact of Harold Washington's death Toni Preckwinkle
    01:29
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    Initial impressions of the Obamas Penny Pritzker
    02:10
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    Community organizing and leadership development in South Chicago Bruce Orenstein
    07:51
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    Observing President Obama's reaction to winning the Ohio vote Sam Kass
    02:56
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    Maintaining connections with Chicago friends during the Obama White House years Eleanor Kaye Wilson
    02:10
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    Obama's identity formation at Columbia University and as a Chicago community organizer Maya Soetoro-Ng
    03:46
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    Reflections on Obama's early political aspirations and reception in Chicago's Black community Craig Robinson
    03:13
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    Obama's attraction to Trinity Church for its community activism and social justice focus Josh DuBois
    03:36
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    Interaction with President Obama and chiefs of staff for state briefings Jon Carson
    02:53
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    Early career in community organizing and meeting Obama through DCP Bruce Orenstein
    05:48
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    Obama's reflections on running for president and hope in children's eyes Julius Genachowski
    02:18
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    Reflections on President Obama's legacy and impact on Illinois John Cullerton
    03:51
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    Support for Obama's congressional race against Bobby Rush Toni Preckwinkle
    01:25
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    Historical role of Black political figures in Chicago and their influence on government opportunities Toni Preckwinkle
    02:22
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    Team members and their contributions at University of Chicago Medicine Leif Elsmo
    02:10
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    Obama's early political career and personal background discussed before Senate run Gregory Craig
    01:20
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    Assessment of Obama's 2000 congressional race defeat against Bobby Rush David Axelrod
    04:48
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    Formation of the Obamas' social and political network in Kenwood and Hyde Park Valerie Jarrett
    03:55
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    Jesse Jackson Jr.'s political career and the controversy over Alice Palmer's seat Toni Preckwinkle
    02:20
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    Support for Obama over Dan Hynes in state elections due to progressive stance and racial politics Toni Preckwinkle
    01:26
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    Early support and lifestyle of the Obamas before the presidency Sam Kass
    02:07
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    Assisting Obama with political strategy and connections Emil Jones
    01:11
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    Obama's commitment to attending events and fundraising while balancing family time Allison Davis
    02:40
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    Significance of Chicago in the Obamas' relationship and careers Marian Robinson
    03:46
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    Reflections on President Obama's commitment to community engagement after office Kēhaulani Lum
    02:37
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    Early professional relationship and friendship with Valerie Jarrett Susan Sher
    02:20
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    Rahm Emanuel's political skills and policy innovation during Chicago campaign Ben LaBolt
    03:40
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    Obama's focus on consumer fairness and financial education due to Illinois foreclosures Richard Cordray
    01:59
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    Obama's broad coalition building and appeal across traditional divides during the Senate campaign David Axelrod
    04:51
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    Obama's decision to run for Congress and lack of support from Chicago's Black leadership Newton Minow
    02:56
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    Handling the controversy around Reverend Jeremiah Wright during the campaign David Axelrod
    01:17
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    Living arrangements with adult daughter working at Sidley & Austin Marian Robinson
    02:07
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    Factors contributing to President Obama's career launch in Chicago Eleanor Kaye Wilson
    02:39
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    Reflections on Obama's response to the Reverend Jeremiah Wright controversy Kevin Lewis
    03:08
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    Obama's transition from community organizer to Illinois State Senator Gerald Kellman
    02:01
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    Differences between politics and public service in Chicago's civic culture John Rogers
    04:33
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    Obama's decision to run against Bobby Rush for Congress in 1999 Daniel Shomon
    02:06
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    Obama's character shaped by his diverse life experiences and intellect Tina Tchen
    03:27
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    Support for Bobby Rush and initial disbelief at Obama's presidential run Marian Robinson
    02:19
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    Obama's ability to communicate across different cultural groups Ta-Nehisi Coates
    02:57
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    Expansion of the National Park Service to include historical sites under Obama's presidency Christy Goldfuss
    03:49
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    Obama's spiritual development and integration of faith with public life Gerald Kellman
    04:31
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    Development of the Regional Employment Network and Community Education Program by DCP Gerald Kellman
    03:25
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    Obama's sense of home in Chicago and its political opportunities for Black candidates Newton Minow
    02:30
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    Personal experience at Grant Park during Obama's election night victory Austan Goolsbee
    03:02
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    Obama's political rise and the absence of Harold Washington's influence in Chicago politics Bruce Orenstein
    01:20
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    Obama's attraction to Reverend Wright's ministry and Trinity's intellectual community Otis Moss III
    03:01
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    Experiencing racial remarks and supporting Obama over Daniel Hynes for US Senate Allison Davis
    04:43
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    Michelle Obama's influence on her husband's political success in the South Side Timuel Black
    02:17
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    Impact of Harold Washington's death on Chicago's progressive politics and coalition building Valerie Jarrett
    03:24
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    Impact of Harold Washington's death on political negotiations in 1987 Bruce Orenstein
    02:32
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    Campaign work in Chicago and managing super delegate endorsements Josh Earnest
    02:16
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    Endorsement of Senator Obama in the 2008 Democratic primary Richard Cordray
    02:42
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    Michelle Obama's early impressions of her husband's modest lifestyle and values Marian Robinson
    02:39
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    Paul Simon's endorsement and its impact on Obama's Senate campaign Toni Preckwinkle
    02:32
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    Early efforts to unite Catholic and Protestant churches in South Chicago community organizing Gerald Kellman
    02:36
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    Early support and factors influencing Obama's decision to run for president Allison Davis
    04:11
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    Adjusting to Washington DC's social dynamics and the role of Jocelyn Frye in the transition Susan Sher
    02:28
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    Crafting a national message amidst diverse emotional registers during Obama's presidency David Simas
    06:22
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    President Obama's alignment with the concept of tikkun olam and its impact on his career choices David Axelrod
    02:04
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    Hadiya Pendleton's involvement in the inaugural parade and subsequent tragedy Eric Waldo
    02:24
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    Discovering Obama's writing talent and initial political fundraising efforts Martin Nesbitt
    04:36
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    Perceptions of political aspirations for Black Americans before Obama's presidency Gerald Kellman
    02:02
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    Obama's multicultural background and experiences as an outsider shaping his resilience and political identity Gerald Kellman
    05:24
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    Organizing against corrupt politicians in Chicago's Tenth Ward Bruce Orenstein
    02:32
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    Career transition from law firm to real estate development and the impact of the 2007-2008 financial crisis Allison Davis
    10:03
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    Understanding power and organizing in Chicago's political landscape Gerald Kellman
    05:31
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    Impact of the Obama Center on Chicago's South Side development and community narrative Otis Moss III
    02:16
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    Continuities between the Obama Foundation's work and the Obamas' Chicago relationships Susan Sher
    03:32
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    Obama's appeal across diverse Illinois demographics and strategic planning for statewide elections Daniel Shomon
    06:48
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    Impact of US Steel layoffs on Chicago's Southeast Side communities Bruce Orenstein
    02:36
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    Evolution of University of Chicago Medical Center and Michelle Obama's recruitment to lead community affairs Leif Elsmo
    03:27
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    Challenges of addressing gun violence as CEO of Chicago Public Schools Arne Duncan
    03:50
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    Decision to relocate to Chicago for ministry and community engagement Otis Moss III
    03:28
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    Comparing economic and community development in Milwaukee and Chicago with Public Allies Leif Elsmo
    10:37
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    Obama's emergence from Chicago politics without negative stereotypes Allison Davis
    04:32
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    Meeting President Obama through basketball and Project Vote John Rogers
    02:07
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    Obama's confidence and upbringing contrasted with societal limitations and racism Allison Davis
    04:28
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    Obama's discipline and trustworthiness in gaining support from the South Side of Chicago Eleanor Kaye Wilson
    02:43
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    First impressions of the Obamas in Chicago Penny Pritzker
    05:24
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    Impact of the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago's South Side and local economy James Crown
    05:37
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    Obama's cultivation of public service in a politically challenging environment Valerie Jarrett
    02:22
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    Reaction to President Obama's candidacy and campaign from a Hyde Park enthusiast Destiny Blackmon
    02:07
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    Support for Obama's candidacy amidst concerns of political alienation in Chicago Emil Jones
    03:31
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    Reaction to Obama's presidential run announcement and Michelle Obama's initial reluctance Marian Robinson
    02:30
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    Obama's ability to connect with diverse audiences across different settings David Axelrod
    01:26
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    Obama's 1996 Illinois State Senate race and the political naivete surrounding it Bobby Rush
    06:45
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    Reflections on the impact of a young girl's spirit at her funeral service Cleopatra Cowley
    03:25
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    Chicago legal community's support for Obama's campaign and engagement in the election Susan Sher
    02:43
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    Community support for Obama's political campaigns in Hyde Park-Kenwood Martin Nesbitt
    04:54
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    Chance encounter with the Obamas on their first date at a movie theater Newton Minow
    02:56
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    Harold Washington's unique political journey and impact on Chicago's Black community David Axelrod
    10:08
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    Challenges faced by Obama during his campaign against Bobby Rush Daniel Shomon
    03:55
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    Influence of personal experiences on the Promise Zones initiative Arne Duncan
    02:29
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    Collaboration between the University of Chicago and the Obama Presidential Center James Crown
    03:06
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    Early experiences supporting Obama's state senate campaign Craig Robinson
    03:46
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    Reflections on the inclusivity and warmth of the Obama White House Martin Nesbitt
    04:19
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    Obama's approach to empowering local leaders in community meetings Bruce Orenstein
    02:18
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    Impressions of the state senate race involving Obama and Alice Palmer Emil Jones
    02:09
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    Obama's early community service work and its impact on his political career Kēhaulani Lum
    04:11
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    Reflections on celebrating President Obama's victory in Chicago Susan Sher
    02:11
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    Involvement with Democratic elections and redistricting during Project Vote in 1992 Emil Jones
    01:08
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    Obama's early community organizing and collaboration with local leaders Bruce Orenstein
    04:59
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    Obama's formative experiences in Chicago and their influence on his career path Dan Hale
    01:19
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    Impact of migration on community dynamics and education in Bronzeville Timuel Black
    03:43
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    First impressions of Obama during community organizer trainings Bruce Orenstein
    04:01
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    Discussions on transforming waste management in Chicago with Harold Washington's administration Bruce Orenstein
    06:55
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    Speculation on Obama's potential continued focus on organizing if early initiatives had succeeded Gerald Kellman
    01:18
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    Advising Obama's senatorial campaign and the debate with Alan Keyes Austan Goolsbee
    09:16
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    Early fundraising strategies for President Obama's campaign Craig Robinson
    01:12
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    The role of ethnic politics in shaping political careers in cities like Chicago Gerald Kellman
    02:20
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    Obama's bipartisan approach and commitment to significant issues, including death penalty reform John Cullerton
    02:34
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    Ralph Metcalfe's break from the Daley organization and its significance in Chicago politics Toni Preckwinkle
    02:03
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    First encounter with the Obamas in Hyde Park and a memorable trick-or-treating story Otis Moss III
    02:02
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    First encounter with Obama at a book signing event Susan Sher
    02:32
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    Reflections on the quiet moments during Obama's election night victory Brian Mosteller
    07:57
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    Experience working in Chicago City Hall during Mayor Daley's terms Susan Sher
    02:15
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    Contrasting levels of hope in Hawaii and Chicago's South Side Kēhaulani Lum
    01:06
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    Support for the Obama Presidential Center and service on the Obama Foundation board Penny Pritzker
    02:26
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    Historical independence in Chicago's Fifth Ward politics Toni Preckwinkle
    02:24
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    Reflections on sharing an office with Obama and political involvement as University of Chicago board chair James Crown
    05:08
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    Obama's early experiences as a community organizer and his legislative speech style John Cullerton
    03:38
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    Reflections on racial politics in Chicago and Harold Washington's influence on Obama David Axelrod
    06:08
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    Attending President Obama and Michelle Obama's wedding Julius Genachowski
    03:06
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    Obama's perspective on education, work, and the shift towards a global world Gerald Kellman
    04:38
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    Reflections on Obama's early understanding of power as a young organizer Bruce Orenstein
    04:27
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    Impact of racial segregation on Black political power in Chicago Valerie Jarrett
    02:38
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    Reflections on opposition during the Trumbull Park riots and Jim Fitch's role Bruce Orenstein
    01:21
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    Senator Paul Simon's endorsement of Obama and their shared values Dick Durbin
    02:29
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    Obama's political career development in Chicago versus influences from Hawaii Kēhaulani Lum
    01:18
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    Fundraising strategy and team dynamics for Obama's campaign in Chicago Julianna Smoot
    02:59
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    Assessment of Obama's potential for political success and unique qualifications John Rogers
    02:01
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    Richard M. Daley's political campaigns, handling of racial tensions, and independence from his father's legacy David Axelrod
    06:03
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    Obama's early involvement with education and community job programs in Chicago Emil Jones
    02:01
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    Mentorship program initiatives and opening up the White House during the Obama administration Melissa Winter
    02:21
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    Women's leadership in Chicago's political scene during Obama's early campaigns Valerie Jarrett
    02:13
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    Basketball's role in forming long-lasting relationships and frequent playing locations Martin Nesbitt
    02:36
  • Wartime Presidency
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    Formation of a foundation and reaching out to Obama for collaboration Bruce Orenstein
    02:10
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    Maintaining friendships and personal connections during and after the Obama White House years Susan Sher
    03:45
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    Perceptions of Hawaii's seriousness in national politics during Obama's campaign Stuart Glauberman and Jerry Burris
    01:11
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    Decision to leave politics and join Obama's Senate campaign David Axelrod
    02:23
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    Obama's reflections on Harold Washington's influence and career decisions in politics Gerald Kellman
    01:24
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    Influence of the University of Chicago on personal and professional development Valerie Jarrett
    04:29
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    Involvement in the 2008 election and AIPAC's connection to then-Senator Obama Michael Kassen
    02:51
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    Transition of responsibilities at U of Chicago Medicine during Obama's presidential campaign Leif Elsmo
    06:11
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    Fundraising strategies for Obama's Senate campaign and gaining Penny Pritzker's support Martin Nesbitt
    04:42
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    Building trust with South Side leaders and internal teams at the University of Chicago Medical Center Leif Elsmo
    08:23
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    Engagement of the Obamas with Chicago's issues during the presidency Valerie Jarrett
    05:20
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    Obama's engagement with Chicago's Black church leaders and their influence on his work and faith Gerald Kellman
    07:38
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    Early impressions of Chicago's African American community and politics Martin Nesbitt
    04:13
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    Harold Washington's influence on Obama's career and aspirations Valerie Jarrett
    01:27
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    Influence on AFL-CIO endorsement during Obama's campaign Emil Jones
    02:40
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    Factors contributing to President Obama's political rise in Chicago Allison Davis
    03:33
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    Reactions to hiring Obama at a prestigious law firm Allison Davis
    02:10
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    Misconceptions about Obama's political commitments during Alice Palmer's congressional race Bobby Rush
    02:55
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    Chicago's role in establishing President Obama's credibility during the national campaign James Crown
    01:28
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    Reflections on Obama's early community organizing and political ambitions Bruce Orenstein
    04:34
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    Managing caucus tensions and legislative progress in the minority party Emil Jones
    01:21
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    Reflection on Obama's primary victory and historical progress in Chicago David Axelrod
    01:28
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    Michelle Obama's transition to the University of Chicago as associate dean Leif Elsmo
    04:12
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    Reflections on the accuracy of Dreams from My Father and involvement in the 2008 campaign Gerald Kellman
    05:42
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    Michelle Obama's approach to family dinner time and work-life balance Melissa Winter
    01:05
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    Impact of Harold Washington's death on Chicago's political momentum and leadership Valerie Jarrett
    03:22
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    Comparing political growth in Chicago to President Obama's career development Otis Moss III
    05:08
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    Obama's surprising primary victory and historical comparison to Harold Washington David Axelrod
    01:19
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    Early career relationships formed in Chicago Martin Nesbitt
    04:34
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    Collaboration between Obama and community leaders through DCP Bruce Orenstein
    02:36
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    Impact of newcomers on Chicago politics and leadership opportunities Toni Preckwinkle
    02:53
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    Obama's response to the Reverend Jeremiah Wright controversy during the 2008 campaign Timuel Black
    03:56
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    Significance of the Obama Presidential Center's location on the South Side Otis Moss III
    02:35
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    Michelle Obama's role in revealing President Obama's personal side during campaigns Sarah Hurwitz
    01:14
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    Building political support and friendships in the Chicago business community Valerie Jarrett
    02:13
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    Impact of Harold Washington's election and Fred Hampton's assassination on Black political empowerment in Chicago Bobby Rush
    04:41
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    Reflections on political challenges and lack of pedigree in Congress Bobby Rush
    03:31
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    Obama's reflections on community organizing challenges in Chicago Bruce Orenstein
    03:12
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    Obama's realization of politics' impact on communities from his community organizing days Marian Robinson
    03:32
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    Reflections on leadership transition at Trinity during 2008 and the Obama campaign Otis Moss III
    03:06
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    Rebuilding Obama's political base after the loss to Bobby Rush and Michelle Obama's perspective Allison Davis
    02:37
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    Strategic focus on downstate Illinois over Chicago in early planning Pete Rouse
    02:35
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    Church congregation's support for President Obama and reflections post-second term Otis Moss III
    02:45
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    Early encounter with Obama and delivering a donation for Project VOTE! Bobby Rush
    03:30
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    Craig and Michelle Obama's early education and academic experiences Marian Robinson
    05:32
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    Obama's early vision for political influence and community organizing Bruce Orenstein
    04:12
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    Comparing voter dynamics in Obama's Senate run to his presidential campaign Valerie Jarrett
    02:40
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    Environmental justice efforts in Southeast Chicago and Altgeld Gardens Bruce Orenstein
    03:01
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    Bringing a mentor to the White House and his reaction to Obama's presidency Sam Kass
    02:10
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    Challenges of balancing healthcare services and financial costs at a South Side Chicago hospital James Crown
    04:31
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    Early investigative reporting experience and uncovering political connections in Chicago David Axelrod
    05:56
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    Reflections on advising President Obama during the last years of his administration Austan Goolsbee
    04:41
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    Reflections on President Obama's early career and rapid rise in politics Elizabeth Alexander
    01:24
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    State Senator Obama's 2002 speech against the Iraq War and his decision-making process David Axelrod
    02:24
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    Mentoring Obama without showing favoritism in the legislative body Emil Jones
    01:22
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    Creation of the Transition to College Preparatory program by the Task Force on Excellence in Education Emil Jones
    02:41
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    Personal anecdotes about President Obama's generosity and character Eleanor Kaye Wilson
    03:49
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    Legal campaign for Wisconsin Steel workers' pensions led by Tom Geoghegan Bruce Orenstein
    02:40

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