Walter Cronkite

Definition

Walter Cronkite was a prominent American broadcast journalist who served as the anchor for the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981. He became known as 'the most trusted man in America' due to his authoritative reporting style and his ability to convey complex news stories with clarity. His influence on news production was immense, as he set the standard for journalistic integrity and professionalism in television news.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Cronkite reported on major events such as the Vietnam War, the Apollo 11 moon landing, and the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, shaping public perception of these pivotal moments.
2. His emotional broadcast following Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963, is credited with helping Americans process the tragedy and created a sense of national mourning.
3. Cronkite's approach to journalism emphasized fact-based reporting and ethics, which influenced generations of journalists and set a standard for news production.
4. He famously declared, 'And that's the way it is' at the end of each broadcast, becoming a catchphrase that embodied his authoritative style.
5. Cronkite's departure from CBS in 1981 marked the end of an era in television journalism, as he had been a defining figure in how news was produced and presented.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Cronkite's reporting style influence the perception of television journalism in America?
  • Walter Cronkite's reporting style greatly influenced television journalism by establishing a standard for journalistic integrity and professionalism. His calm demeanor, clarity in storytelling, and commitment to factual reporting helped build trust with viewers. This trust led to his nickname as 'the most trusted man in America,' which underscored how crucial anchormen were in shaping public perception during times of crisis.
• Analyze the impact of Walter Cronkite's coverage of major historical events on public opinion during the 1960s.
  • Walter Cronkite's coverage of significant historical events like the Vietnam War and the Apollo 11 moon landing had a profound impact on public opinion in the 1960s. His candid reporting on the Vietnam War shifted many Americans' views against U.S. involvement as he presented the harsh realities of conflict. Likewise, his enthusiastic coverage of the moon landing fostered national pride and unity. This duality highlights how Cronkite's journalism could rally support or raise critical questions about American policies.
• Evaluate Walter Cronkite's legacy in terms of journalistic ethics and standards for future generations of journalists.
  • Walter Cronkite's legacy in journalism is characterized by his unwavering commitment to ethics, accuracy, and integrity, setting a benchmark for future generations. His belief that journalists should be impartial and fact-driven has shaped modern news practices and serves as a model for aspiring journalists. As media continues to evolve, Cronkite's approach reminds us of the importance of maintaining credibility amidst sensationalism, ensuring that journalistic standards remain high in an increasingly complex media landscape.

Related terms

Television Journalism: A form of journalism that primarily uses video footage to report news stories, combining visuals with audio to enhance storytelling.

Anchor: A journalist who presents news stories on television or radio, often providing commentary and guiding the broadcast.

Investigative Reporting: A type of journalism that seeks to uncover the truth about complex issues through thorough research and in-depth analysis.