Walter Cronkite, born on April 4, 1916, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, was the son of Helen Lena Fritsche and Dr. Ulysses Grant Cronkite, a dentist. Growing up in Kansas City, young Walter was an active member of the Boy Scouts, developing a strong sense of leadership and civic duty that would serve him well in his future career.
After graduating from high school, Cronkite attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied political science and journalism. It was during his time at university that he began to develop a passion for reporting and storytelling. After graduation, Cronkite worked as a journalist for various newspapers before eventually finding his way to radio broadcasting.
In 1950, Walter Cronkite joined CBS News as a correspondent, covering some of the biggest stories of the time, including the Korean War. His calm demeanor and authoritative voice quickly made him a trusted source of news for American audiences. In 1962, Cronkite took over as the anchor of the CBS Evening News, a position he would hold for over 30 years.
Throughout his career, Cronkite's dedication to delivering the news with accuracy and integrity earned him the title of "Most Trusted Man in America." His coverage of major events such as the assassination of John F. Kennedy solidified his reputation as a reliable and respected journalist.
In 1940, Walter Cronkite married Mary Elizabeth Maxwell, with whom he had three children. Despite his demanding career, Cronkite always made time for his family, cherishing the moments he spent with his loved ones outside of the newsroom.
After retiring from the CBS Evening News in 1981, Cronkite remained active in the world of journalism, hosting documentaries and special programs. He continued to be a voice of reason and authority in a rapidly changing media landscape. Walter Cronkite passed away on July 17, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in journalism that continues to inspire future generations of reporters.
Walter Cronkite's impact on the field of journalism cannot be overstated. His dedication to truth and integrity in reporting set a standard for journalists around the world to aspire to. Through his steadfast commitment to delivering the news with accuracy and fairness, Cronkite earned the trust and respect of millions of viewers, solidifying his place as one of the greatest journalists of all time.
Related links