Benton's problematic painting techniques, theories, and restoration techniques are critically reviewed. The panels of <i>America Today</i> are cradled wallboard covered with heavy linen, seven coats of gesso, and a commercial composite oil paint. These were underpainted with distemper; egg tempera was then applied. On top of this were applied local oil glazes, natural resin varnish, and wax. There is cleavage originating in the distemper layer, and binding of pigments is irregular. Benton restored the murals himself in 1931, 1957, and 1968, nailing down raised surfaces, scraping off flaking paint and apparently using excessively strong solvents. An overall film of gelatin was applied in 1957 and partially removed in 1968. He overpainted many areas over a clear acrylic emulsion in 1968. In 1984 and 1985 the murals were examined and treated at the Williamstown Regional Art Conservation Laboratory. Methods and decisions made to remove Benton's own restorations are discussed, and the recent treatment is detailed. -- AATA