Walter Cronkite

Walter Cronkite

Walter Cronkite was born on November 4th, 1916

Full Name: Walter Leland Cronkite Jr.
Place of Birth: St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
Nationality: American
Occupation: Journalist, News Anchor
Notable Work: CBS Evening News
Awards: Presidential Medal of Freedom
Died: July 17, 2009
Age at Death: 92 years old

Legendary news anchor and voice of authority, known for delivering trusted and unbiased reporting during pivotal moments in American history, including the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Written by: Oliver Wren Oliver Wren

The Most Trusted Man in America: Walter Cronkite

Known as the most trusted man in America, Walter Cronkite was a legendary broadcast journalist who anchored the CBS Evening News for 19 years, from 1962 to 1981. During his tenure, he reported on some of the most significant events of the 20th century, earning him a reputation as a trusted and authoritative voice in American journalism.

Early Life and Education

Cronkite was born on November 4, 1916, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, to Helen Lena Fritsche and Dr. Walter Leland Cronkite, a dentist. He spent his early years in Kansas City, Missouri, before moving to Houston, Texas, at the age of 10. Cronkite attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he worked on the Daily Texan and became a member of the Nu chapter of the Chi Phi fraternity.

Rise to Fame

Cronkite's journalistic career spanned over five decades, during which he reported on some of the most significant events of the 20th century, including World War II, the Nuremberg trials, the Vietnam War, and the Apollo 11 moon landing. He was known for his in-depth coverage of the United States space program, earning him the nickname "Old Ironpants" for his ability to withstand the physical demands of reporting from the launch site.

Awards and Honors

Cronkite received numerous awards and honors for his work, including two Peabody Awards, a George Polk Award, an Emmy Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which was awarded to him by President Jimmy Carter in 1981. He was also the only non-NASA recipient of an Ambassador of Exploration award.

Departing Catchphrase

Cronkite was famous for his departing catchphrase, "And that's the way it is," followed by the date of the broadcast. This phrase became synonymous with his reputation as a trusted and authoritative voice in American journalism.

Personal Milestones

Cronkite was married to Mary Elizabeth "Betsy" Maxwell Cronkite for 65 years, until his death in 2009. He had three children, Nancy, Kathy, and Walter III, and was a member of the Boy Scouts of America.

Legacy

Walter Cronkite's legacy extends far beyond his own journalistic career. He paved the way for future generations of journalists and inspired countless Americans with his Coverage of significant events. He died on July 17, 2009, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most trusted and respected journalists of the 20th century.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Walter Cronkite's impact on American journalism is immeasurable. His commitment to reporting the truth, his dedication to his craft, and his legacy as the most trusted man in America continue to inspire generations of journalists and Americans alike.

Timeline
1916
Born in Missouri
Walter Cronkite was born on November 4, 1916, in St. Joseph, Missouri. He would go on to become a renowned journalist.
1935
Started Journalism Career
Cronkite began his journalism career, working as a reporter for the Kansas City Star.
1950
Joined CBS News
Walter Cronkite joined CBS News, where he would become a household name.
1962
Became Anchor of CBS Evening News
Cronkite became the anchor of the CBS Evening News, a position he held for 19 years.
1981
Retired from CBS News
Walter Cronkite retired from CBS News, but continued to work as a journalist and commentator until his death in 2009.
Walter Cronkite

Walter Cronkite Quiz

Walter Cronkite was often referred to as what?

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FAQ
What was Walter Cronkites role in journalism?
Walter Cronkite was a renowned American journalist and news anchor who reported on many significant events of the 20th century. He was known as the most trusted man in America for his unbiased and accurate reporting.
What was Walter Cronkites most famous broadcast?
Walter Cronkites most famous broadcast was his reporting of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969, where he famously exclaimed Oh boy, oh boy! as Neil Armstrong stepped onto the moons surface.
What was Walter Cronkites stance on the Vietnam War?
Walter Cronkite was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War, and his reporting on the conflict helped shape public opinion. He famously declared that the war was mired in stalemate in 1968, which influenced President Lyndon B. Johnsons decision to seek peace talks.
What awards did Walter Cronkite win?
Walter Cronkite won numerous awards for his journalism, including three Peabody Awards, four duPont-Columbia Awards, and an Emmy Award.
What is Walter Cronkites legacy in journalism?
Walter Cronkites legacy in journalism is one of integrity, accuracy, and fairness. He set a high standard for journalistic excellence and is remembered as one of the most trusted and respected journalists of his time.

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