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William Dorsey Swann: The first "Queen of Drag"

Born into slavery, Swann was the first known person to identify as a “Queen of Drag.”

William Dorsey Swann: The first "Queen of Drag" American Masters

Premiered October 01, 2021
William Dorsey Swann: The first "Queen of Drag"

Born into slavery, Swann was the first known person to identify as a “Queen of Drag” and the first known American activist to lead a queer resistance group.

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Program Specials & Extras

Conan O’Brien speaks about his style of late night and his reason for doing comedy.
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Conan O’Brien gets serious about silliness

Discover the work of New York photographer Corky Lee in his own words.
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Special

Dear Corky

Jerry Seinfeld discusses his collaboration with Larry David and the evolution of the sitcom.
Watch (16:01)
Special

Jerry Seinfeld on his place in American sitcom history

About the Program

American Masters

American Masters, committed to producing comprehensive film biographies about the broad cast of characters who comprise our cultural history.

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