Seymour Hersh

Definition

Seymour Hersh is a renowned American investigative journalist known for his groundbreaking work uncovering major stories, particularly those related to U.S. government actions and military affairs. His career is highlighted by his investigative reporting style, which often involves in-depth research, whistleblower interviews, and the use of confidential sources, making him a pivotal figure in the field of investigative journalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hersh gained national prominence with his 1969 exposé on the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War, which revealed U.S. troops' atrocities against Vietnamese civilians.
2. He has received numerous awards for his investigative work, including the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting in 1970.
3. Hersh's style often includes deep sourcing and reliance on insider information, which has made him both respected and controversial in journalism circles.
4. He has written several books and articles that critique U.S. foreign policy and military actions, showcasing his commitment to transparency and accountability.
5. Hersh's investigations have led to major political consequences, influencing public perception and policy decisions regarding military engagements and government practices.

Review Questions

• How did Seymour Hersh's reporting on the My Lai Massacre change public perception of the Vietnam War?
  • Seymour Hersh's reporting on the My Lai Massacre brought to light the horrific actions of U.S. troops against Vietnamese civilians, which had been largely hidden from the public. His detailed investigation exposed the brutality of the war and raised ethical questions about U.S. military conduct, significantly shifting public sentiment towards opposition to the Vietnam War. This critical revelation played a key role in changing how Americans viewed their government's involvement in Vietnam.
• Discuss the techniques Seymour Hersh uses in his investigative reporting that contribute to his success as a journalist.
  • Seymour Hersh employs various techniques that enhance his investigative reporting, such as building strong relationships with whistleblowers and confidential sources who provide crucial insider information. He conducts extensive research and cross-references multiple accounts to validate his findings, ensuring accuracy and credibility in his stories. Hersh's ability to navigate complex bureaucracies and present nuanced narratives allows him to uncover truths that often remain obscured from public view.
• Evaluate the impact of Seymour Hersh's journalism on governmental transparency and accountability in the United States.
  • Seymour Hersh's journalism has had a profound impact on governmental transparency and accountability by consistently exposing wrongdoing within U.S. institutions. His revelations have prompted public discourse on ethics in government operations and military actions, leading to greater scrutiny from both media and civil society. The outcomes of his investigations have resulted in policy changes and increased awareness of issues like war crimes and government secrecy, thus fostering a culture that demands accountability from public officials.

Related terms

Investigative Journalism: A form of journalism that seeks to uncover the truth about complex issues, often involving extensive research, interviews, and analysis to expose wrongdoing or corruption.

Whistleblower: An individual who exposes information or activities within an organization that are deemed illegal, unethical, or not correct, often at personal risk.

Pentagon Papers: A classified Department of Defense study that revealed the U.S. government's decision-making process during the Vietnam War, which was leaked to the press and led to significant public backlash.