A nonpartisan documentary about a 1956 California congressional race that rocked the nation
A documentary about a 1956 California congressional race that rocked the nation
About the film
Dalip Singh Saund was a local farmer, judge, and naturalized citizen born in India. Jacqueline Cochran Odlum was a world-famous aviator with powerful connections. Their race for Congress became one of the most dramatic political contests of 1956, drawing 80% voter turnout and ending in an upset victory that made Saund the first Asian, Indian, and Sikh American member of Congress.
“Seldom if ever has the American melting pot cooked up a spicier election dish than the contest now simmering in California’s 29th Congressional District.”
‘BILL BECKER, ASSOCIATED PRESS – MAY 5, 1956’
Share stories about 1956 America, connect us to people who knew Saund or Cochran or anyone who voted in 1956 (they’d be in their 80s today).
This is an independent media project currently in production. 100% tax-deductible contributions to this documentary film can be made through our fiscal sponsor, the Center for Independent Documentary. Click the QR code for information on how to donate by credit card or by check.
As public interest grows around the 250th anniversary of the United States, SAUND vs COCHRAN offers a historically grounded story about citizenship, congressional representation, and American democracy in the 1950s.
We welcome conversations with museums, libraries, universities, historical societies, and civic institutions interested in presenting the film and related primary-source materials for broad public audiences and exhibitions.
