Dan Rather, born on October 31, 1931, in Wharton, Texas, is one of the most recognizable and respected figures in American journalism. Throughout his prolific career, Rather’s unwavering dedication to reporting the truth, insightful analysis, and extensive reporting on major world events have solidified his status as a journalistic icon.
Rather began his career in journalism as a reporter in Texas, covering a wide range of stories, from local politics to hurricanes. His tenacity and passion for reporting soon caught the attention of CBS News, where he joined the network in 1962. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a White House correspondent during the Nixon administration and later the anchor of the CBS Evening News.
Rather’s reporting was marked by his fearlessness in tackling difficult and often controversial stories. He traveled to dangerous regions around the world, providing viewers with firsthand accounts of major global events. His reporting from Vietnam, the Middle East, and numerous other hotspots earned him admiration and respect from colleagues and viewers alike.
Throughout his career, Rather covered some of the most significant moments in modern history. From the assassination of President John F. Kennedy to the Watergate scandal that led to President Nixon’s resignation, Rather was at the forefront of news coverage, providing viewers with real-time updates and critical insights.
Rather’s commitment to journalistic integrity and objectivity was evident in his reporting. He upheld the principles of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality, even in the face of criticism and pressure. Rather’s integrity earned him the trust of his audience, and he was often regarded as a reliable and credible source of news.
After a distinguished career at CBS News, Rather left the network in 2006 but continued his work in journalism through documentaries, interviews, and his own news show, “Dan Rather Reports.” He remains an active voice on social media, sharing his thoughts on current events and providing astute analysis on issues of national and global importance.
Dan Rather’s legacy as a journalistic icon and his dedication to reporting the truth continue to inspire aspiring journalists and media professionals. Throughout his career, he demonstrated the power of journalism to inform, educate, and shape public discourse. His commitment to truth-seeking and ethical reporting stands as a shining example of what journalism should be.
Dan Rather’s remarkable career as a journalist spans decades and includes some of the most significant moments in history. His tireless dedication to uncovering the truth, in-depth reporting, and unyielding commitment to journalistic ethics have earned him the respect and admiration of peers and audiences worldwide. As a respected icon in the world of journalism, Dan Rather’s impact and influence continue to shape the field and inspire future generations of journalists to seek truth, report with integrity, and contribute to the betterment of society through the power of their words and reporting.
Journalists should denounce government by public opinion polls.
Dan Rather
Never eat spinach just before going on the air.
Dan Rather
Once the herd starts moving in one direction, it’s very hard to turn it, even slightly.
Dan Rather
Only votes talk, everything else walks.
Dan Rather
Performing doesn’t turn me on. It’s an egomaniac business, filled with prima donnas – including this one.
Dan Rather
They may have turned this up, whether you had the Paula Jones case or not. But again maybe not, but again that’s like if a frog had side pockets he’d probably wear a handgun.
Dan Rather
Americans will put up with anything provided it doesn’t block traffic.
Dan Rather
Those market researchers… are playing games with you and me and with this entire country. Their so-called samples of opinion are no more accurate or reliable than my grandmother’s big toe was when it came to predicting the weather.
Dan Rather
To err is human but to really foul up requires a computer.
Dan Rather
What I say or do here won’t matter much, nor should it.
Dan Rather
If all difficulties were known at the outset of a long journey, most of us would never start out at all.
Dan Rather
The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called “truth”.
Dan Rather
Are the Democrats going to dance the mandate Macarena?
Dan Rather
I’ve always tried to be fair, even-handed, not an advocate for any group.
Dan Rather
And now the sequence of events in no particular order.
Dan Rather
A tough lesson in life that one has to learn is that not everybody wishes you well.
Dan Rather
An intellectual snob is someone who can listen to the William Tell Overture and not think of The Lone Ranger.
Dan Rather
Courage is being afraid but going on anyhow.
Dan Rather
Despite what many Americans think, most Soviets do not yearn for capitalism or Western-style democracy.
Dan Rather
Don’t taunt the alligator until after you’ve crossed the creek.
Dan Rather
Fear rules almost every newsroom in the country.
Dan Rather
For years Don Imus was just – boy, he was merciless in his criticism of me. Maybe it was justified, but that didn’t mean it didn’t hurt.
Dan Rather
I don’t back down. I don’t cave when the pressure gets too great from these partisan political ideological forces.
Dan Rather
I’m proud to say I’ve never been anybody’s lapdog.
Dan Rather
