The papers consist of correspondence, speeches, writings, and other papers, (including research and teaching materials, photographs, memorabilia, newspaper and periodical clippings, books, and radio and television tapes) of Max Lerner, an American educator, author, lecturer, historian, and political scientist. The papers focus on Lerner's public life and career with very little material on his personal or family life. The papers document Lerner's close association with Justice Felix Frankfurter and Harold J. Laski, his controversial writings on homosexuality, his work with the Democratic Party during Adlai Stevenson's presidential campaigns, his work on behalf of Jewish causes and Zionism, and his activities during the "red scare" of the 1950s.