Harrison Salisbury, born on November 14, 1908, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was the son of Percy Pritchard Salisbury and Georgiana Evans Salisbury. Growing up in the Midwest, Salisbury developed a keen interest in the world beyond America's borders. This interest would shape his future career as a journalist and author.
After completing his education, Salisbury began his career as a reporter, working for United Press in foreign bureaus for 20 years. His assignments took him to various countries, providing him with firsthand experience of global events and politics. In 1949, he was appointed as the Moscow bureau chief for the New York Times, a role he held until 1954.
Salisbury's time in Moscow deepened his understanding of the communist world, and he began to write extensively on the subject. His nuanced and insightful reporting on the Soviet Union and other communist countries set him apart as a journalist. Despite facing criticism from individuals like Senator Joseph McCarthy, Salisbury's commitment to telling the truth earned him the Pulitzer Prize in 1955.
Over the course of his career, Salisbury authored over two dozen books that explored various aspects of the communist world. His writing was characterized by a deep knowledge of his subjects and a commitment to uncovering the truth. In addition to his work on communism, Salisbury also wrote about other significant events and figures, including Martin Luther King and the civil rights movement.
Salisbury's sympathetic portrayals of Martin Luther King and his coverage of the civil rights struggle in the deep south led to a $6 million libel lawsuit against the New York Times. However, the court ultimately ruled in favor of the newspaper, recognizing Salisbury's dedication to honest and accurate reporting.
Aside from his career as a journalist and author, Salisbury was known for his family life and personal interests. He was a devoted husband and father, finding time to balance his professional commitments with his loved ones. In his spare time, Salisbury enjoyed reading, traveling, and engaging in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds.
As Salisbury's career progressed, he continued to be a voice of reason and integrity in the field of journalism. His meticulous research and compelling storytelling earned him a reputation as one of the most respected reporters of his time. After his passing, his legacy lived on through his writings, which continued to inspire and educate readers around the world.