History of 24/7 Breaking News in America

The Evolution of Journalism in the United States

Over the years, the field of journalism in the United States has experienced profound changes, moving from conventional reporting methods to what is termed “New Journalism.” This contemporary style, emerging in the 1960s and 1970s, combines narrative elements with immersive reporting methods. Influential figures and organizations, such as Lowell Thomas, NBC, CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, Fox News, and the Financial News Network, have significantly contributed to this evolution. This essay delves into the history and advancement of New Journalism in America, spotlighting these entities and individuals’ impact on current media practices.

 – For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Television first captured the public’s hopeful vision of revolutionizing communication and society. From its early days, industry pioneers like David Sarnoff, a significant player in broadcasting and president of RCA, envisioned it as a powerful tool for transforming American life and global connections. Sarnoff, who recognized the potential of radio, transformed NBC into a leading network and actively promoted the media’s role in fostering progress and embodying the American experience. He heralded television as a groundbreaking innovation that would transmit both sound and imagery through the airwaves.

In his addresses, Sarnoff highlighted the capacity of television to enrich American society and promote global unity. He envisioned it becoming the primary hub of news, education, and entertainment, offering diverse programs that would elevate cultural interest and contribute to unprecedented artistic achievements. Sarnoff anticipated a seamless blend of various programming types supported by advertising, which he believed would prevent government censorship as was seen in European nations.

Yet, Sarnoff’s optimistic outlook did not address key challenges. While radio was freely accessible, it became heavily commercialized, impacting the variety of programming available. Networks sold airtime to advertisers whose choices often favored entertainment over serious, public interest content. This commercialization risked limiting the diversity of programming, making it difficult for niche shows to secure sponsorship.

Established by the Federal Communications Act of 1934, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was expected to oversee the broadcasting landscape and ensure that it served public interests. However, its regulatory approach often proved lenient, allowing networks to prioritize entertainment. Still, news and public interest segments carved out a niche, driven more by market competition than regulatory mandates.

1 Corinthians 15:1-28 – Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;   

CBS emerged as a frontrunner in radio journalism, particularly during World War II, thanks to its innovative reporting techniques and renowned journalists like Edward R. Murrow. This reputation extended into television, even as figures such as Sarnoff and William S. Paley of CBS recognized the medium’s potential. Although networks confronted hurdles in developing infrastructure and securing affiliates, advancements in technology and better access allowed them to broaden their impact by the early 1950s.

The inception of television news programs began, with CBS and NBC launching evening newscasts that utilized creative techniques to communicate stories visually. Local stations also explored news programming; however, most remained entertainment-focused due to the high production costs associated with film.

The capabilities of television were vividly displayed during the 1948 political conventions, as networks banded together to broadcast these key events to an expanding audience. By the conventions of 1952, networks had refined their coverage methods, earning accolades for enhancing civic engagement through their contributions.

Ultimately, the formative years of television were characterized by both opportunity and obstacles, as networks navigated the complexities of technology, finance, and regulations to solidify their status as key players in American media.

The Emergence of New Journalism

New Journalism, as a distinct literary movement, is often linked to authors like Tom Wolfe and Truman Capote, who blended traditional news reporting with literary elements such as rich character portrayals and storytelling. Nonetheless, the foundations of New Journalism were laid much earlier, with the rise of broadcast journalism, which delivered news straight into American homes, revolutionizing how stories were narrated and received.

Romans 10:9-13 – That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.   

Lowell Thomas: An Innovator in Broadcast Journalism

Lowell Thomas was among the first to leverage radio for news broadcasting. Starting in the early 20th century, Thomas gained fame through his engaging nightly broadcasts. His storytelling approach and knack for vividly depicting remote events set the stage for integrating narrative elements into journalism, a feature that later became central to New Journalism.

NBC: Pioneering Television News

The National Broadcasting Company (NBC) was instrumental in shaping television news. As a pioneering network in establishing a dedicated news division, it set benchmarks for broadcast journalism. Programs like “The Huntley-Brinkley Report” became synonymous with high-quality news coverage, merging meticulous journalism with an approachable presentation style. NBC’s groundbreaking approaches in news reporting laid the foundation for the engaging, personality-driven formats seen in New Journalism.

The Cable News Shift: CNN, CNBC, and MSNBC

The launch of CNN in 1980 was a pivotal moment in American journalism history. Founded by Ted Turner, CNN was the first network to provide 24-hour news coverage, fundamentally altering the consumption of news. Its real-time reporting during significant events like the Gulf War highlighted the power of uninterrupted news coverage and set a new standard for immediacy and accessibility.

 – How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

Following CNN’s lead, CNBC and MSNBC established themselves as key players within the cable news domain. CNBC, starting in 1989, focused on business news, offering detailed insights into financial markets and economic trends. This shift towards specialized journalism exemplified a growing trend of audience-targeted reporting, increasingly relevant in the digital era.

MSNBC, originating as a partnership between Microsoft and NBC in 1996, broadened the cable news landscape further. By emphasizing political analysis and commentary, MSNBC carved out a distinctive niche aimed at a specific audience demographic. This inclination towards personalized content and opinion-centered reporting is reflective of broader shifts in New Journalism, where personal viewpoints often intertwine with facts.

Fox News: A Partisan Approach to News

Launched in 1996, Fox News added a new layer to cable news with its clear conservative perspective. Under Roger Ailes’ direction, Fox positioned itself as a counterpoint to the perceived liberal slant of other networks. This strategic choice resonated with a considerable portion of the American viewership, propelling Fox to the forefront of cable news ratings.

Fox News’s rise highlighted the increasing demand for opinion-focused journalism, where the news is presented not just as a factual report but through a specific ideological lens. This trend towards partisan reporting has emerged as a defining feature of New Journalism in contemporary times, as audiences opt for news outlets that reflect their personal beliefs and values.

The Financial News Network: Trailblazers in Business Journalism

Founded in 1981, the Financial News Network (FNN) was a forerunner to CNBC and played a crucial role in the evolution of business journalism. Catering specifically to investors and business leaders, FNN emphasized financial markets and economic updates. Although it eventually became part of CNBC in 1991, its influence is evident in the ongoing demand for specialized financial reporting.

 – For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

FNN’s dedication to business news embodied the movement towards niche journalism, where media outlets cater to particular audience interests. This specialization is a hallmark of New Journalism, representing a shift from broad reporting to more targeted and personalized content.

In Summary

The narrative of New Journalism in America showcases the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the media sphere. From Lowell Thomas’s groundbreaking efforts in broadcast journalism to the revolutionary impact of cable networks like CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, Fox News, and the Financial News Network, journalism has continually evolved through innovation, specialization, and an increasing focus on narrative and opinion.

As New Journalism progresses in the digital age, earlier lessons remain significant. Integrating storytelling elements, embracing varied viewpoints, and prioritizing audience engagement are pivotal components that characterize modern journalism. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the legacy of New Journalism will undoubtedly continue to influence the ways news is conveyed and absorbed in the U.S. and beyond.

 – Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.