CNN

Definition

CNN, or Cable News Network, is a major American news channel founded in 1980 by Ted Turner and Reese Schonfeld. It is notable for being the first all-news television channel, providing 24-hour news coverage and revolutionizing the way news is reported and consumed on television. CNN's approach to breaking news and global events has set the standard for news broadcasting, influencing other networks and the overall media landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CNN was launched on June 1, 1980, and was the first television channel to provide 24-hour news coverage, changing the landscape of broadcast journalism.
2. The network gained significant attention during major events such as the Gulf War in 1991, where its live coverage provided real-time updates from the front lines.
3. CNN's influence extends globally, with international editions of the channel that cater to audiences around the world, including CNN International.
4. The network has faced criticism over the years for perceived biases in reporting and for prioritizing sensational stories over traditional journalism.
5. CNN has expanded its presence into digital media, including online streaming and social media platforms, adapting to the changing ways audiences consume news.

Review Questions

• How did CNN's establishment in 1980 change the way news was reported on television?
  • CNN's launch in 1980 marked a significant shift in broadcast journalism by introducing 24-hour news coverage. Prior to this, most news channels had fixed schedules and limited airtime for news reporting. CNN's continuous coverage allowed for immediate updates on breaking news and global events, setting a new standard that other networks soon followed. This model has since become a norm in television journalism, fundamentally altering viewers' expectations of news access.
• Discuss the role of CNN during the Gulf War and how it affected public perception of news media.
  • During the Gulf War in 1991, CNN gained widespread acclaim for its live coverage from the front lines, which was unprecedented at the time. This real-time reporting not only provided viewers with immediate information about military operations but also fostered a sense of connection between the audience and distant events. As a result, CNN's role shifted public perception of news media, highlighting its ability to report breaking news as it unfolded and solidifying its position as a leading source of information.
• Evaluate CNN's impact on global news coverage and how it has adapted to changes in technology over the years.
  • CNN's impact on global news coverage has been profound since its inception, as it pioneered the concept of continuous reporting on international events. The network has successfully adapted to technological changes by expanding into digital media platforms, offering online streaming services and engaging with audiences through social media. This evolution reflects CNN's commitment to maintaining relevance in an increasingly digital world while continuing to influence how news is reported and consumed globally.

Related terms

Broadcast Journalism: A form of journalism that reports on news and events for television and radio, focusing on delivering information to the public through audio-visual means.

Cable Television: A system of delivering television programming to consumers via radio frequency signals transmitted through coaxial cables or fiber optics.

Breaking News: An urgent news story that is currently developing and requires immediate reporting, often interrupting regular programming to deliver the latest updates.