Walter Cronkite

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Cronkite was known for his calm demeanor and authoritative presence, which helped gain viewers' trust during critical historical moments.
2. He famously declared that the Vietnam War was unwinnable, which significantly impacted public opinion and policy regarding the conflict.
3. Cronkite's coverage of major events, like the assassination of John F. Kennedy and the Apollo moon landing, cemented his legacy in American history.
4. He received numerous awards for his journalism, including several Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award, highlighting his contributions to the field.
5. His departure from CBS marked the end of an era in broadcast journalism, as he had been a pioneering figure in bringing national news into American households.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Cronkite's reporting style contribute to his status as 'the most trusted man in America' during pivotal historical events?
  • Walter Cronkite's reporting style was characterized by his authoritative voice, calm demeanor, and commitment to factual reporting. This approach resonated with viewers during times of crisis, such as the Vietnam War and political scandals. By prioritizing accuracy and providing thorough context in his broadcasts, he built a strong rapport with the audience, ultimately leading to his recognition as 'the most trusted man in America.'
• Discuss the impact of Cronkite's declaration regarding the Vietnam War on public perception and government policy.
  • Walter Cronkite's declaration that the Vietnam War was unwinnable had a profound effect on public perception and government policy. After he aired this opinion following a trip to Vietnam in 1968, many Americans began to question U.S. involvement in the conflict. His influence was so significant that President Lyndon B. Johnson reportedly said, 'If I've lost Cronkite, I've lost Middle America,' highlighting how Cronkite's views could sway public opinion and potentially impact political decisions.
• Evaluate Walter Cronkite's legacy in the context of modern journalism and how it compares to today's media environment.
  • Walter Cronkite's legacy in journalism is marked by his commitment to integrity and factual reporting during a time when news served as a unifying force in society. In contrast, today’s media environment is fragmented with various platforms offering differing perspectives, often leading to polarized views among audiences. Cronkite’s model of objective journalism challenges contemporary practices where sensationalism can overshadow factual reporting. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of trustworthiness and responsibility in modern journalism.

Related terms

Broadcast Journalism: A field of journalism that involves reporting news through television, radio, and online platforms, focusing on delivering information to a mass audience.

Investigative Reporting:

A form of journalism that seeks to uncover the truth about complex issues or corruption, often involving extensive research and interviews.

Television News Anchor: A journalist who presents news stories on television, typically providing commentary, context, and analysis to viewers.