Dan Rather is one of the most respected journalists in the history of American news. For more than 60 years he has reported on some of the most important events of our time, earning a reputation for thoroughness, accuracy, and fearlessness along the way.
Born in Wharton, Texas, on October 31, 1931, Dan Rather grew up in Houston, attended Sam Houston State University, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He began his career in journalism in the late 1950s, working as a reporter for the Houston Chronicle and later for the CBS-affiliated TV station in Houston.
In the early 1960s, Rather began his career at CBS News, where he quickly distinguished himself as a hardworking and aggressive reporter. He covered some of the most significant stories of the era, including the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, the civil rights movement, and the Vietnam War.
In 1975, Rather became the anchor of CBS Evening News, a position he held for 24 years. During his tenure, Rather reported on some of the most significant events of the 20th century, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Gulf War, and the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Along the way, Dan Rather earned a reputation as one of the most respected and talented journalists of his time. His reporting style was known for its tenacity, his ability to get to the heart of a story, and his tendency to ask tough questions even when they were uncomfortable or controversial.
But despite his many accomplishments, Dan Rather’s career has not been without controversy. In 2004, during the Presidential campaign between George W. Bush and John Kerry, Rather reported on a story regarding Bush’s National Guard service that was later found to be based on unreliable documents. The resulting scandal led to Rather’s departure from CBS in 2006.
Since then, Rather has continued to work as a journalist and commentator, hosting a show on AXS TV and contributing to various news outlets including CNN and MSNBC. He has also written several books, including his memoir, “Rather Outspoken: My Life in the News.”
Throughout his long and storied career, Dan Rather has remained committed to the ideals of journalism and the pursuit of truth. He has earned the respect of his peers and the trust of the American people, and his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of reporters and journalists.
In an age of fake news, sensationalism, and bias, Dan Rather’s unwavering dedication to the truth is more important than ever. He stands as a shining example of what journalism can and should be, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.