Democracy at Work in Rural Puerto Rico (in the Ephemeral section of Open Video Project. Also, film #414 on Prelinger Archive). [Category: Public Service]

This 40s film, made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Extension Service, chronicles the services the Extension Service provides to rural Puerto Rican families, including training in better farming methods, help with starting home-based businesses, and starting 4-H clubs for the kids. It’s pretty straightforward, though the emphasis on “American” values seen in a Hispanic culture is a little bit unusual in spots. Mostly, though, this is just what you’d expect. It does give a historically interesting glimpse into rural life in Puerto Rico during the 40s.

Ratings: Camp/Humor Value: **. Weirdness: **. Historical Interest: ****. Overall Rating: ***.