Edward R. Murrow: An American Original Whose Legacy Lives On

Edward R. Murrow: An American Original

by Joseph E. Persico

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5047 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	510 pages
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Early Life and Career

Edward Roscoe Murrow was born on April 25, 1908, in Pollocksville, North Carolina. He grew up in poverty and worked his way through Columbia University, where he studied journalism. After graduation, Murrow worked as a radio reporter and producer for CBS.

In 1935, Murrow was sent to London to cover the rise of Nazism in Europe. His reporting from the front lines of World War II earned him widespread acclaim for its accuracy and objectivity. Murrow's broadcasts from London helped to galvanize American public opinion against the Axis powers.

The Golden Age of Television

After the war, Murrow returned to the United States and played a leading role in the development of television news. In 1951, he launched "See It Now," a groundbreaking news magazine that set new standards for investigative journalism and public affairs programming.

"See It Now" tackled controversial issues such as McCarthyism, racial segregation, and the nuclear arms race. Murrow's fearless reporting and uncompromising commitment to truth made him a target of both praise and criticism. However, his work helped to shape public opinion and raise awareness of important social and political issues.

CBS Reports and the Legacy of Murrow

In 1959, Murrow left "See It Now" to create "CBS Reports," a series of in-depth documentaries that continued his tradition of hard-hitting journalism. CBS Reports produced groundbreaking documentaries on topics ranging from the civil rights movement to the Vietnam War.

Murrow's legacy as a journalist is unparalleled. He was a pioneer in the field of television news and set high standards for accuracy, objectivity, and public service. Murrow's commitment to truth and his willingness to challenge authority have made him an enduring symbol of journalistic integrity.

The Murrow Era

The period from the late 1940s to the early 1960s is often referred to as the "Murrow Era" in American journalism. During this time, Murrow's influence on television news was at its peak, and he helped to establish the medium as a powerful force for informing and shaping public opinion.

Murrow's legacy extends beyond his own career. He mentored many young journalists who went on to become leaders in the field. He also helped to establish the Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University, which is today one of the leading journalism schools in the United States.

Murrow's Enduring Impact

Edward R. Murrow died in 1965 at the age of 57. However, his legacy continues to live on. He is remembered as one of the most influential and respected journalists in American history. His work helped to define the role of television news in a democratic society, and his commitment to truth and accountability remains an inspiration to journalists today.

In 1996, Murrow was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. In 2005, he was ranked number 21 on Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential Americans of the 20th century.

Edward R. Murrow was a true American original. His courage, integrity, and dedication to journalism set a high standard for all who followed in his footsteps. His legacy as a pioneer in television news and an advocate for truth and accountability will continue to inspire generations to come.

Edward R. Murrow: An American Original

by Joseph E. Persico

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5047 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	510 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE