From 1979 through 1985, millions of Americans tuned in to CBS on Friday nights to view a fantasy slice of Southern country life on one of the nation's highest rated shows, The Dukes of Hazzard. The comedy featured exaggerated Southern accents, tooth-rattling car chases, and comic stereotypes of good and evil. Sandwiched between The Incredible Hulk (1978–82) and Dallas (1978–91; see entry under 1980s—TV and Radio in volume 5), The Dukes of Hazzard drew huge audiences of loyal fans. Even in 2001, sixteen years after its cancellation, The Dukes of Hazzard still thrives in reruns.

With its simple, silly plots and wholesome values, The Dukes of Hazzard was a counterpoint to the seriousness of politically radical culture of the late 1960s and 1970s and issue-oriented comedies like All in the Family (1971–79; see entry under 1970s—TV and Radio in volume 4). The stars of the show were three...