40 Facts About CBS News

The Origins of CBS News

CBS News has a rich history that spans decades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its beginnings and evolution.

1. CBS News was founded in 1927 as part of the Columbia Broadcasting System, initially focusing on radio broadcasts.
2. The first CBS News broadcast aired on September 18, 1927, featuring a speech by then-President Calvin Coolidge.
3. Edward R. Murrow, one of the most iconic figures in journalism, joined CBS in 1935 and became famous for his World War II reports.
4. In 1941, CBS News launched its first television news broadcast, making it one of the pioneers in TV journalism.
5. The network's first news anchor, Douglas Edwards, began his tenure in 1948, setting the stage for future news anchors.

Iconic Anchors and Reporters

Over the years, CBS News has been home to many legendary journalists who have shaped the way news is reported.

6. Walter Cronkite, often referred to as "the most trusted man in America," anchored the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981.
7. Dan Rather succeeded Cronkite and served as the anchor of the CBS Evening News from 1981 to 2005.
8. Katie Couric made history in 2006 by becoming the first solo female anchor of a major network evening news program.
9. Bob Schieffer, a veteran journalist, hosted "Face the Nation" for 24 years, becoming a staple in political reporting.
10. Lesley Stahl, a correspondent for "60 Minutes" since 1991, is known for her hard-hitting interviews and investigative reports.

Groundbreaking News Coverage

CBS News has been at the forefront of covering some of the most significant events in history.

11. CBS News was the first to break the news of President John F. Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963.
12. The network provided extensive coverage of the Watergate scandal, with reporters like Dan Rather and Lesley Stahl leading the charge.
13. During the Vietnam War, CBS News' coverage, including reports by Walter Cronkite, played a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
14. The network's coverage of the 9/11 attacks included live reports from ground zero and interviews with key figures.
15. CBS News was one of the first to report on the COVID-19 pandemic, providing critical information and updates.

Award-Winning Programs

CBS News has produced several award-winning programs that have set the standard for quality journalism.

16. "60 Minutes," which debuted in 1968, is one of the longest-running and most-watched news programs in television history.
17. "CBS Sunday Morning," known for its in-depth features and human-interest stories, has won multiple Emmy Awards.
18. "Face the Nation," a Sunday morning political talk show, has been a staple of CBS News since 1954.
19. "48 Hours," which focuses on true crime stories, has been on the air since 1988 and has won numerous awards.
20. "CBS This Morning," launched in 2012, has been praised for its serious approach to morning news.

Innovations in Journalism

CBS News has always been at the cutting edge of journalism, introducing new technologies and methods.

21. In 1951, CBS News aired the first live coast-to-coast television broadcast.
22. The network was one of the first to use satellite technology for live news reporting in the 1960s.
23. CBS News pioneered the use of videotape for news broadcasts, allowing for more timely and flexible reporting.
24. The network's "Instant Eye" technology, introduced in the 1970s, allowed for live remote broadcasts from various locations.
25. CBS News was an early adopter of digital journalism, launching its website in 1996 to provide online news coverage.

Memorable Interviews

CBS News has conducted some of the most memorable and impactful interviews in journalism history.

26. Edward R. Murrow's 1954 interview with Senator Joseph McCarthy is considered a turning point in the fight against McCarthyism.
27. Mike Wallace's 1979 interview with Ayatollah Khomeini during the Iran hostage crisis was a landmark moment in international journalism.
28. In 1992, Dan Rather's interview with then-presidential candidate Bill Clinton addressed the Gennifer Flowers scandal.
29. Oprah Winfrey's 2021 interview with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, aired on CBS, made global headlines.
30. Lesley Stahl's 2020 interview with President Donald Trump on "60 Minutes" became a viral moment due to its contentious nature.

CBS News and Social Media

In the digital age, CBS News has embraced social media to reach a broader audience.

31. CBS News has a strong presence on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, sharing breaking news and updates.
32. The network's YouTube channel features clips from its programs, attracting millions of views.
33. CBSN, a 24/7 streaming news service launched in 2014, provides live news coverage and on-demand content.
34. The network uses social media to engage with viewers, encouraging them to share their thoughts and opinions.
35. CBS News has also launched podcasts, such as "The Takeout" and "CBS This Morning," to reach listeners on the go.

Commitment to Investigative Journalism

Investigative journalism has always been a cornerstone of CBS News, uncovering important stories and holding power to account.

36. "60 Minutes" has exposed numerous scandals, including the Enron scandal and the Abu Ghraib prison abuse.
37. The network's investigative unit has won multiple awards for its in-depth reporting on issues like government corruption and corporate malfeasance.
38. CBS News' "Eye on America" series has highlighted social issues and brought attention to underreported stories.
39. The network's commitment to investigative journalism has led to significant changes, such as policy reforms and criminal convictions.
40. CBS News continues to invest in investigative journalism, ensuring that important stories are told and justice is served.

CBS News: A Legacy of Trust and Innovation

CBS News has been a cornerstone of American journalism for decades. From its humble beginnings in radio to its current status as a multimedia giant, CBS News has consistently delivered reliable, groundbreaking reporting. The network has covered some of the most pivotal moments in history, from the moon landing to presidential elections, always striving for accuracy and integrity.

Its commitment to innovation is evident in its embrace of digital platforms, ensuring that news reaches audiences wherever they are. CBS News has also been a training ground for some of the most respected journalists in the industry, further cementing its reputation for excellence.

Whether you're a longtime viewer or new to the network, CBS News offers a rich tapestry of stories that inform, educate, and inspire. Its legacy is a testament to the power of journalism in shaping our understanding of the world.