Walter Cronkite

Definition

Walter Cronkite was an influential American broadcast journalist, known for his role as the anchor of the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981. He became a prominent figure in broadcast journalism, shaping how news was presented on television and becoming a trusted voice during critical moments in American history, thus reflecting the evolution and significance of journalism and media platforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Cronkite is often referred to as 'the most trusted man in America' due to his credibility and the respect he earned throughout his career.
2. He covered major events such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the Vietnam War, significantly impacting public perception and trust in the media.
3. Cronkite's style was characterized by a calm and authoritative delivery, which helped to establish the standards for television news anchoring.
4. His famous sign-off, 'And that's the way it is,' became iconic, symbolizing the end of each broadcast and reinforcing his role as a reliable news source.
5. After retiring from CBS, Cronkite remained an influential figure in media, advocating for journalistic integrity and ethics in reporting.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Cronkite influence the trustworthiness and credibility of broadcast journalism during his career?
  • Walter Cronkite significantly influenced broadcast journalism by establishing himself as a trustworthy figure through his honest reporting and calm demeanor. His coverage of pivotal events like the Vietnam War showcased not only his journalistic skills but also shaped public trust in the media. As viewers turned to him for news, Cronkite set a standard for integrity and credibility that many journalists aspire to uphold today.
• Discuss the impact of Walter Cronkite's reporting on public perception during major historical events like the Vietnam War.
  • Walter Cronkite's reporting during the Vietnam War had a profound impact on public perception of the conflict. His candid coverage of the war's harsh realities shifted many Americans' views and contributed to growing anti-war sentiment. Cronkite's famous declaration that the war seemed unwinnable after the Tet Offensive changed how many citizens viewed U.S. involvement, illustrating the power of journalism in shaping public opinion.
• Evaluate how Walter Cronkite's legacy continues to influence modern journalism practices and ethical standards.
  • Walter Cronkite's legacy continues to resonate in modern journalism by setting high standards for ethical reporting and maintaining integrity. His belief in providing accurate and unbiased news has influenced contemporary practices where journalists strive to uphold transparency and accountability. In an era of misinformation, Cronkite's model serves as a reminder for journalists today to prioritize facts over sensationalism and to be stewards of public trust.

Related terms

Broadcast Journalism: A form of journalism where news stories are reported via television or radio, often focusing on delivering timely news to a broad audience.

Investigative Reporting: A specialized form of journalism that seeks to uncover hidden information, often involving deep research and analysis to expose wrongdoing or societal issues.

Television News Format: The structure and style of news broadcasts on television, which can vary widely in terms of presentation, length, and content emphasis.