Lunsford certainly was an important figure in drawing interest to folk music. Ives had radio and a recording contract with a major label available and reached a wider audience than Lunsford. But I do not know why one needs to argue which was more significant. Both made great contributions toward continuing interest in folk music in different ways when its natural channels were fading.

Ives testimony before HUAC is a dark spot on a valuable legacy,and while everyone in this forum would like to think they would have chosen a higher path these things are not known until placed in the same situation. People's responses are generally the result of many factors and in some cases people regret their actions and pay a dear price for their weakness. I have tried to live an honorable and responsible life but there are things I wish I could take back and actions and words I will always regret. I could not say I am a better person than Mr. Ives because fewer people know about my indiscretion or thoughtlessness.