Radio news reporter who covered the Hindenburg airship disaster in 1937, famously exclaiming "Oh, the humanity!" as it burst into flames.
Herbert Morrison is best known for his emotional and iconic radio broadcast of the Hindenburg airship disaster on May 6, 1937, which has become an indelible mark on history. His words, "Oh, the humanity! Oh, the humanity!", are etched in the memories of millions, and his voice has become synonymous with tragedy and devastation.
Born on May 14, 1905, in Pennsylvania, Morrison began his radio career in the 1920s, working as a reporter and announcer for several stations. He eventually moved to New York City, where he landed a job with WLS Radio, covering major events such as the 1929 World Series and the 1932 presidential election.
On that fateful day in 1937, Morrison was stationed at Lakehurst Naval Air Station in New Jersey, awaiting the arrival of the German passenger airship Hindenburg. As the ship approached the landing site, disaster struck, and Morrison's live broadcast captured the horror and panic of the event. His impassioned commentary, which included his now-famous phrase, conveyed the shock and despair of the tragedy, which claimed the lives of 36 people.
Morrison's iconic broadcast earned him a special Peabody Award in 1938, and he went on to cover numerous high-profile events, including the 1939 World's Fair and the 1940 presidential election.
Morrison married his wife, Clara, in 1929, and they had one son, Herbert Jr. He was known for his kind and humble nature, and was deeply affected by the Hindenburg disaster, which haunted him for the rest of his life. Morrison passed away on September 22, 1989, at the age of 84.
Herbert Morrison's Hindenburg broadcast has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the power of radio to bring people together in times of tragedy. His iconic phrase has been parodied and referenced countless times in popular culture, from films to music to memes. Morrison's legacy extends beyond his broadcast, however, as he helped shape the role of radio journalism and paved the way for future generations of reporters and announcers.
Morrison's story is a testament to the importance of being present in the moment. His emotional response to the Hindenburg disaster, though devastating, has become an enduring symbol of humanity's capacity for empathy and compassion. His legacy serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, our words and actions can have a profound impact on others.
Herbert Morrison's life and career serve as a poignant reminder of the power of human connection and the enduring impact of a single moment in time. His legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day, and his iconic phrase remains an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.
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