Although the American heritage is influenced by many cultures from around the world, American folk and popular music are built primarily upon the influences of African and British Isles peoples' music. Using some of our best-loved folk songs as a stepping off point, Mark's engaging stories trace these songs through decades of American history, and shows how the songs changed with the social issues of the day. Through banjo and guitar, this program offers a slice of Americana, featuring songs, oral histories, demonstrations and the music of folk artists like Lead Belly and Woody Guthrie.