Glossary

, the iconic anchor, shaped broadcast journalism in the mid-20th century. His career trajectory mirrored the evolution of TV news, from its infancy to becoming a dominant force in American media.

Cronkite's reputation for and earned him the title "." His coverage of major events, from the to the moon landing, set standards for television news that continue to influence journalism today.

Early life and career

  • Walter Cronkite's background shaped his approach to journalism and laid the foundation for his future success in broadcasting
  • His early experiences instilled values of integrity and objectivity that became hallmarks of his reporting style
  • Cronkite's career trajectory exemplifies the evolution of broadcast journalism in the mid-20th century

Childhood and education

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  • Born on November 4, 1916, in St. Joseph, Missouri
  • Moved to Houston, Texas as a child where he developed an interest in journalism
  • Attended the University of Texas at Austin, studying political science and journalism
  • Worked for the student newspaper The Daily Texan, honing his writing and reporting skills
  • Left college before graduating to pursue a career in journalism (1935)

Early broadcasting experience

  • Began career as a newspaper reporter and radio announcer in Oklahoma City
  • Joined United Press in 1937, covering various beats including sports and politics
  • Transitioned to radio broadcasting, reporting for Midwest stations
  • Gained experience in delivering news concisely and clearly, skills that would prove valuable in television
  • Covered local and regional stories, developing a keen sense for newsworthy events

World War II reporting

  • Became a war correspondent for United Press in 1942
  • Covered major World War II events, including:
    • The North African campaign
    • The D-Day invasion of Normandy
  • Flew on bombing missions over Germany, providing firsthand accounts of aerial warfare
  • Reported from the Nuremberg trials, gaining insight into the aftermath of the war
  • Developed a reputation for accurate and timely reporting under challenging conditions

Rise to prominence

  • Cronkite's ascent in the world of broadcast journalism coincided with the growing influence of television news
  • His career at CBS News marked a significant shift in how Americans consumed and perceived news
  • Cronkite's rise to prominence reflected the increasing importance of television as a medium for information dissemination

CBS Evening News anchor

  • Joined CBS News in 1950 as a correspondent and narrator for various programs
  • Hosted the CBS morning show and political convention coverage in the 1950s
  • Became anchor of the CBS Evening News in 1962, initially as a 15-minute broadcast
  • Expanded the program to 30 minutes in 1963, becoming the first half-hour nightly news broadcast
  • Transformed the role of news anchor from a mere reader to a journalist who shaped the news agenda

Most trusted man in America

  • Earned the moniker "the most trusted man in America" through consistent, reliable reporting
  • Polls consistently ranked Cronkite as the most trusted public figure in the United States
  • Developed a reputation for integrity and impartiality in his news delivery
  • Became a stabilizing presence during times of national crisis and uncertainty
  • Viewed by many Americans as a voice of reason and a source of comfort during turbulent times

Iconic catchphrase

  • Concluded each broadcast with the phrase "," followed by the date
  • Catchphrase became synonymous with Cronkite's commitment to factual reporting
  • Reinforced the idea that Cronkite was providing a complete and accurate picture of the day's events
  • Helped establish a sense of consistency and reliability for viewers
  • Phrase entered popular culture, often parodied and referenced in other media

Journalistic style

  • Cronkite's approach to journalism set the standard for broadcast news in the United States
  • His style emphasized factual reporting and clear communication, influencing generations of journalists
  • Cronkite's journalistic philosophy centered on informing the public without sensationalism or bias

Objectivity and impartiality

  • Strived to present news without personal bias or political slant
  • Emphasized fact-based reporting over opinion or speculation
  • Maintained a neutral tone when covering controversial topics
  • Sought to present multiple perspectives on complex issues
  • Earned respect from across the political spectrum for his balanced approach

Clear and concise delivery

  • Spoke in a measured, easily understood manner
  • Used simple language to explain complex topics
  • Avoided jargon and technical terms when possible
  • Structured news stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end
  • Prioritized information delivery over personal style or flair

Authoritative presence

  • Projected confidence and composure on camera
  • Developed a distinctive, reassuring voice that became instantly recognizable
  • Maintained a serious demeanor that lent gravity to his reports
  • Commanded respect through his knowledge and experience
  • Established credibility through consistent, accurate reporting over time

Notable coverage

  • Cronkite's reporting on major events shaped public understanding and opinion
  • His coverage of historic moments often became iconic in its own right
  • Cronkite's ability to contextualize complex events for viewers set him apart from other journalists

Kennedy assassination

  • Broke the news of President John F. Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963
  • Provided continuous coverage for four days, guiding the nation through the tragedy
  • Famously removed his glasses and struggled to maintain composure while announcing Kennedy's death
  • Covered the funeral procession and subsequent events with sensitivity and depth
  • Set a standard for how television news should handle national tragedies

Vietnam War

  • Initially supported the U.S. involvement in Vietnam, reflecting the prevailing view
  • Traveled to Vietnam in 1968 to report on the Tet Offensive
  • Delivered a pivotal editorial on February 27, 1968, questioning the war's winability
  • Stated that the war had reached a stalemate and negotiation was the only way out
  • President Lyndon B. Johnson reportedly said, "If I've lost Cronkite, I've lost Middle America"

Watergate scandal

  • Provided extensive coverage of the Watergate break-in and subsequent investigations
  • Dedicated significant airtime to explaining the complex scandal to viewers
  • Maintained a focus on facts and evidence as the story unfolded
  • Covered the Senate Watergate hearings, bringing the proceedings into American homes
  • Reported on President Nixon's resignation, marking the culmination of the scandal

Space program

  • Enthusiastically covered the U.S. from its inception
  • Anchored CBS coverage of all NASA missions, including Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs
  • Provided commentary for the historic Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969
  • Spent 27 hours on air during the moon landing, capturing the excitement of the moment
  • Helped viewers understand the technical aspects and significance of space exploration

Impact on journalism

  • Cronkite's career had a profound and lasting impact on the field of journalism
  • His approach to news reporting influenced the development of broadcast journalism standards
  • Cronkite's legacy continues to shape discussions about the role of media in society

Television news standards

  • Established expectations for and thoroughness in television reporting
  • Emphasized the importance of on-the-ground reporting and firsthand accounts
  • Promoted the use of expert analysis to provide context for complex stories
  • Demonstrated the power of visual storytelling in television news
  • Set a high bar for professionalism and ethical conduct in broadcast journalism

Public trust in media

  • Helped build public confidence in television as a reliable source of news
  • Personified the idea of the journalist as a trustworthy public servant
  • Contributed to the perception of news anchors as authoritative figures
  • Demonstrated the importance of maintaining credibility through consistent, factual reporting
  • Set expectations for transparency and accountability in news organizations

Influence on political discourse

  • Shaped public opinion on major issues through his reporting and occasional editorials
  • Demonstrated the power of television news to influence political outcomes
  • Established the practice of in-depth coverage of political conventions and elections
  • Helped elevate television as a primary medium for political communication
  • Influenced how politicians engaged with the media and the public

Legacy and honors

  • Cronkite's contributions to journalism have been widely recognized and celebrated
  • His career serves as a benchmark for excellence in broadcast journalism
  • Cronkite's influence extends beyond his active years in the industry

Awards and recognition

  • Received numerous Emmy Awards for his work in television news
  • Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Jimmy Carter in 1981
  • Inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1985
  • Received the for excellence in broadcasting
  • Honored with the creation of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University

Retirement and later years

  • Retired from CBS Evening News in 1981, succeeded by
  • Continued to make occasional television appearances and documentaries
  • Wrote books on his experiences and views on journalism
  • Advocated for journalistic integrity and press freedom
  • Remained a respected voice on issues of media and politics until his death in 2009

Lasting influence on journalism

  • Inspired generations of journalists to pursue careers in broadcast news
  • Set a standard for journalistic ethics that continues to be referenced
  • Influenced the structure and format of television news programs
  • Demonstrated the potential for television to serve as a unifying national platform
  • Continues to be cited as an example of journalistic excellence and integrity

Criticism and controversies

  • Despite his reputation for objectivity, Cronkite faced some criticism during his career
  • Debates about his approach to journalism reflect broader discussions about media ethics
  • Cronkite's occasional departures from strict objectivity sparked conversations about the role of journalists

Accusations of bias

  • Some conservatives accused Cronkite of having a liberal bias in his reporting
  • Critics pointed to his editorial on the Vietnam War as evidence of political leanings
  • Faced scrutiny for his coverage of the and its impact on the Nixon presidency
  • Defended his approach as fact-based reporting rather than partisan bias
  • Debates about Cronkite's objectivity reflect broader discussions about media impartiality

Departure from strict objectivity

  • Occasionally offered personal opinions on major issues, most notably on Vietnam
  • Defended these rare editorials as necessary for informing the public on crucial matters
  • Faced criticism for blurring the line between reporting and commentary
  • Argued that journalists had a responsibility to provide context and analysis
  • His approach influenced debates about the role of journalists in shaping public opinion

Relationship with politicians

  • Maintained professional relationships with political figures while covering them
  • Faced questions about the potential influence of these relationships on his reporting
  • Criticized for attending social events with politicians and government officials
  • Defended his ability to separate personal interactions from professional duties
  • His experiences highlighted the challenges of maintaining journalistic independence

Cronkite vs modern news anchors

  • The role of news anchors has evolved significantly since Cronkite's era
  • Comparisons between Cronkite and modern anchors reflect broader changes in media and society
  • Discussions about Cronkite's legacy often center on how journalism has changed since his time

Changing media landscape

  • Shift from three major networks to numerous cable news channels and online sources
  • Increased competition has led to more opinion-based programming and niche audiences
  • 24-hour news cycle has changed the pace and depth of news coverage
  • Social media has altered how news is distributed and consumed
  • Modern anchors must navigate a more fragmented and fast-paced media environment

Shift in public perception

  • Decline in overall trust in media institutions since Cronkite's era
  • Modern anchors face greater scrutiny and skepticism from audiences
  • Increased polarization has led to perceptions of media bias along political lines
  • Personalization of news delivery has changed the relationship between anchors and viewers
  • Cronkite's level of universal trust and authority is rarely achieved by modern anchors

Evolution of journalistic practices

  • Increased emphasis on real-time reporting and breaking news
  • Greater integration of technology and data in news presentation
  • Shift towards more interactive and participatory forms of journalism
  • Blurring of lines between news and entertainment in some formats
  • Debates about the balance between objectivity and analysis in modern news coverage

Key Terms to Review (25)

Accuracy: Accuracy in journalism refers to the obligation to report information that is correct, truthful, and precise. It involves not only the factual correctness of details but also the context in which they are presented, ensuring that audiences receive reliable and trustworthy information. This is essential in maintaining credibility and informing the public responsibly, connecting with practices like thorough fact-checking, dialogue, and various forms of reporting.
Anchoring: Anchoring refers to the role of a primary news anchor in a television broadcast, providing stability and continuity while presenting news to the audience. This position is crucial as anchors are often seen as the face of a news organization, shaping public perception through their delivery and credibility. Anchors play a pivotal role in framing the news narrative and influencing how stories are perceived by viewers.
And that's the way it is: And that's the way it is is a phrase famously used by Walter Cronkite as a signature sign-off during his television news broadcasts. This phrase encapsulates the essence of journalistic integrity and a commitment to presenting the truth to the audience, regardless of public opinion or political pressure. It represents the idea of delivering news in a straightforward manner, reflecting Cronkite's reputation as 'the most trusted man in America' during his time as a news anchor.
CBS News: CBS News is a prominent American news division that is part of the CBS television network, known for its in-depth reporting and journalistic integrity. Since its founding in the 1920s, it has played a crucial role in shaping broadcast journalism and has been home to many influential journalists, including Walter Cronkite, who is often referred to as 'the most trusted man in America' for his impactful news coverage during pivotal moments in U.S. history.
Civil rights movement coverage: Civil rights movement coverage refers to the journalistic reporting and media portrayal of the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. This coverage played a crucial role in raising public awareness about racial injustices and mobilizing support for civil rights legislation. It included various forms of media, such as newspapers, television broadcasts, and photographs, which documented key events, figures, and social changes that occurred during this pivotal period in American history.
Dan Rather: Dan Rather is an American journalist and former news anchor known for his influential role in television journalism, particularly during the latter half of the 20th century. He gained prominence as a CBS Evening News anchor, succeeding Walter Cronkite, and was recognized for his investigative reporting, especially during critical historical events such as the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. Rather's style combined a deep commitment to journalistic integrity with a distinctive on-air presence, which made him a key figure in the evolution of broadcast journalism.
Documentary filmmaking: Documentary filmmaking is the art of creating non-fiction films that aim to document reality for the purposes of instruction, education, or maintaining a historical record. This genre often blends factual content with narrative storytelling techniques to engage viewers and provide insight into various subjects, such as social issues, history, and culture. Documentary filmmakers often conduct interviews, gather archival footage, and use observational techniques to present a compelling representation of the truth.
Edward R. Murrow Award: The Edward R. Murrow Award is a prestigious honor given to recognize excellence in electronic journalism, named after the legendary broadcaster Edward R. Murrow, who set high standards for journalistic integrity and quality. This award celebrates stories that exemplify the dedication to the principles of journalism that Murrow championed, particularly in challenging times and critical events.
Fairness: Fairness in journalism refers to the ethical obligation to provide balanced and impartial coverage, ensuring that all relevant viewpoints are represented without bias or favoritism. It is crucial for maintaining public trust and credibility, as journalists strive to present facts and perspectives that reflect the complexity of issues, allowing audiences to form their own opinions based on complete information.
Influence on political discourse: Influence on political discourse refers to the ways in which media figures, journalists, and public intellectuals shape the conversations and narratives surrounding political issues. This influence can manifest through the framing of news stories, the selection of topics covered, and the manner in which information is presented to the public, ultimately impacting public opinion and political outcomes.
Integrity: Integrity refers to the adherence to moral and ethical principles, ensuring that one's actions and reporting are honest and transparent. It is a cornerstone of journalism, emphasizing the need for truthfulness and accountability in the pursuit of information. Integrity also encompasses the responsibility journalists have to their audience and society, ensuring that their work maintains public trust.
Kennedy Assassination: The Kennedy assassination refers to the murder of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. This event shocked the nation and had profound implications for American politics and journalism, particularly in how news was reported and consumed in the wake of such a monumental tragedy.
Moon landing broadcast: The moon landing broadcast refers to the live television transmission of the Apollo 11 mission, during which astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the moon on July 20, 1969. This historic event was a major milestone in space exploration and marked a significant moment in American history, as it captivated millions of viewers around the world and showcased advancements in technology and human achievement.
Most Trusted Man in America: The term 'Most Trusted Man in America' refers to Walter Cronkite, a legendary American broadcast journalist who served as the anchor for the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981. Cronkite earned this title due to his unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity, his calm and authoritative delivery, and his ability to connect with the American public during times of social upheaval and crisis. He played a critical role in shaping public perception of major historical events, such as the Vietnam War and the Apollo moon landings, establishing himself as a reliable source of information during an era of increasing skepticism towards the media.
Murrow's Team: Murrow's Team refers to the group of talented journalists and producers who worked alongside Edward R. Murrow at CBS during the 1940s and 1950s, known for their groundbreaking approach to radio and television news. This team was instrumental in changing the landscape of broadcast journalism by emphasizing truth, integrity, and compelling storytelling in their coverage of significant events, such as World War II and McCarthyism.
Objectivity: Objectivity in journalism refers to the practice of reporting news and events without bias or personal opinion, striving for fairness and accuracy. This principle is fundamental to maintaining credibility and trust in journalism, as it helps ensure that all perspectives are represented without favoritism.
Peabody Award: The Peabody Award is an esteemed American award that recognizes excellence in broadcasting, specifically in the fields of radio, television, and online media. Established in 1940, it honors work that demonstrates integrity, courage, and a commitment to public service. The award is often seen as a hallmark of journalistic achievement and is given to individuals and organizations that produce compelling and impactful stories.
Public trust in media: Public trust in media refers to the confidence and belief that the audience has in the integrity, accuracy, and fairness of news organizations and journalists. This trust is crucial for a healthy democracy, as it ensures that citizens rely on the media to provide them with truthful information, essential for making informed decisions. High levels of public trust lead to greater engagement with news content, while a decline can result in skepticism towards news outlets and a fragmented media landscape.
Space program: A space program refers to a coordinated effort by a government or organization to explore outer space through human and robotic missions. This includes a range of activities such as launching satellites, conducting research in microgravity, and sending astronauts to the Moon and beyond. The space program is often tied to national pride, scientific advancement, and technological innovation, significantly impacting journalism as it provides compelling narratives and real-time coverage that engage the public's imagination.
Television news standards: Television news standards refer to the ethical and professional guidelines that govern the production and presentation of news content on television. These standards ensure accuracy, fairness, and impartiality in reporting, which are crucial for maintaining public trust in the media. The significance of these standards has evolved over time, especially with influential figures like Walter Cronkite who set a benchmark for journalistic integrity and credibility during his tenure in television news.
Tet Offensive Coverage: Tet Offensive Coverage refers to the extensive media reporting and public exposure surrounding the Tet Offensive, a significant military campaign during the Vietnam War that occurred in early 1968. This coverage played a pivotal role in shaping public perception of the war, highlighting the stark contrast between official government statements about progress and the reality on the ground. The graphic images and reports of the offensive brought the brutality of the conflict into American living rooms, leading to increased anti-war sentiment.
Tom Brokaw: Tom Brokaw is a renowned American television journalist, best known for his role as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News from 1982 to 2004. He is often celebrated for his insightful coverage of significant historical events, and he played a crucial role in shaping modern broadcast journalism. His work during pivotal moments, particularly during the Gulf War and alongside figures like Walter Cronkite, exemplifies his influence in bringing news to the American public.
Vietnam War Reporting: Vietnam War Reporting refers to the journalistic coverage of the Vietnam War, a conflict that took place from the late 1950s until 1975. This type of reporting was groundbreaking as it introduced real-time coverage and powerful visual imagery to the American public, fundamentally changing the relationship between media, politics, and society. The reporting often highlighted the brutal realities of war, leading to widespread public scrutiny and debate over U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
Walter Cronkite: Walter Cronkite was a renowned American broadcast journalist, best known for his role as the anchor of the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981. He became a trusted figure in journalism, earning the nickname 'the most trusted man in America' during significant events such as the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. His influence and reporting style helped shape public perception of news and the responsibilities of journalists during turbulent times.
Watergate Scandal: The Watergate Scandal was a major political scandal in the United States during the early 1970s, following a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up by members of the Nixon administration. This scandal led to a significant decline in trust toward government institutions, raising questions about ethics in journalism and the role of media in holding power accountable.
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