The Tocqueville series is launched with a live program from the Tocqueville family chateau. Descendants of Alexis de Tocqueville and Gustave de Beaumont, Tocqueville scholars and others discuss the family origins and history of both men.

About This Series

Beginning in May 1997, the C-SPAN School Bus retraced the steps of Alexis de Tocqueville, author of Democracy in America, who traveled throughout the U.S. in 1831 with his friend, Gustave de Beaumont. Starting in Newport, RI, the bus explored the eastern half of the U.S. Over 9 months, the Bus made 55 stops along Tocqueville's route and discussed the same issues he raised -- issues such as religion and politics, the impact and power of the press and the changing role of government.