36 Facts About Edward R. Murrow

Early Life and Education

Edward R. Murrow, a name synonymous with broadcast journalism, had a fascinating early life that shaped his illustrious career.

1. Born on April 25, 1908, in Polecat Creek, North Carolina, Murrow was the youngest of three brothers.
2. His birth name was Egbert Roscoe Murrow, which he later changed to Edward.
3. Murrow's family moved to Washington State when he was six, seeking better opportunities.
4. He attended Washington State College (now Washington State University), where he majored in speech.

Career Beginnings

Murrow's journey into journalism began with humble steps that eventually led to groundbreaking achievements.

5. After college, Murrow worked for the Emergency Committee in Aid of Displaced Foreign Scholars, helping academics fleeing Nazi persecution.
6. In 1935, he joined CBS as the director of talks and education, marking the start of his broadcasting career.
7. Murrow's first major assignment was covering the Anschluss, the Nazi annexation of Austria, in 1938.
8. He gained fame for his live radio broadcasts from London during World War II, known as the "This…is London" series.

World War II Reporting

Murrow's wartime reporting set new standards for journalism and brought the realities of war into American homes.

9. He reported from the rooftops of London during the Blitz, providing firsthand accounts of the bombings.
10. Murrow's team, known as the "Murrow Boys," included notable journalists like Eric Sevareid and Charles Collingwood.
11. He was one of the first journalists to report from the Buchenwald concentration camp, describing the horrors he witnessed.
12. His reports were instrumental in shaping American public opinion about the war.

Post-War Career

After the war, Murrow continued to influence journalism and public discourse through various roles and projects.

13. He hosted the radio program "Hear It Now," which later transitioned to television as "See It Now."
14. Murrow's 1954 "See It Now" episode on Senator Joseph McCarthy is credited with helping to end the McCarthy era.
15. He interviewed prominent figures on "Person to Person," including Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy.
16. Murrow served as the director of the United States Information Agency under President John F. Kennedy.

Personal Life

Murrow's personal life was as intriguing as his professional one, filled with interesting anecdotes and relationships.

17. He married Janet Huntington Brewster in 1935, and they had one son, Charles Casey Murrow.
18. Murrow was a heavy smoker, often seen with a cigarette in hand during broadcasts.
19. Despite his fame, he remained humble and was known for his integrity and dedication to truth.
20. He enjoyed sailing and spent much of his free time on his boat, the "Moonduster."

Legacy and Honors

Murrow's contributions to journalism have been recognized and celebrated long after his death.

21. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.
22. The Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) named their highest honor, the Edward R. Murrow Award, after him.
23. Murrow was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 1973.
24. His alma mater, Washington State University, named their communication school the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond his professional accolades, Murrow's life was filled with lesser-known but equally fascinating facts.

25. He was an avid reader, with a particular interest in history and literature.
26. Murrow had a distinctive baritone voice, which became one of his trademarks.
27. He was known for his meticulous preparation and often wrote his scripts by hand.
28. Murrow's catchphrase, "Good night, and good luck," became iconic and is still remembered today.

Influence on Modern Journalism

Murrow's impact on journalism continues to be felt, influencing generations of reporters and broadcasters.

29. His emphasis on fact-based reporting set a standard for journalistic integrity.
30. Murrow's use of radio and television to bring important issues to the public's attention paved the way for modern investigative journalism.
31. He mentored many young journalists, leaving a lasting legacy through his protégés.
32. Murrow's work during the McCarthy era demonstrated the power of the press in holding those in power accountable.

Final Years and Death

Murrow's later years were marked by continued contributions to journalism and public service.

33. He resigned from CBS in 1961 to take up his role at the United States Information Agency.
34. Murrow was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1963, likely due to his heavy smoking.
35. He passed away on April 27, 1965, just two days after his 57th birthday.
36. Murrow's funeral was attended by many prominent figures, reflecting the profound impact he had on journalism and society.

Murrow's Lasting Legacy

Edward R. Murrow's impact on journalism remains unmatched. His fearless reporting during World War II and his bold stance against McCarthyism set a high bar for journalistic integrity. Murrow's dedication to truth and his ability to connect with audiences transformed news broadcasting. His work not only informed but also inspired future generations of journalists to pursue the truth, no matter the cost. Murrow's legacy lives on in the principles of honest reporting and the relentless pursuit of facts. His contributions to journalism remind us of the power of the press in shaping public opinion and holding power accountable. As we reflect on Murrow's life, it's clear that his influence continues to resonate in today's media landscape. His commitment to excellence and integrity serves as a guiding light for all who seek to inform and enlighten the public.