Yellow Journalism Fiasco

It is hard to fathom that in the history of United States, there was a time when journalism was solely a brand of sensationalism and not even a bit reflective of the truth. It is a frightening prospect to blindly believe what you read not knowing that it is all false. At the end of the nineteenth century, citizens were greatly deceived and manipulated by two powerful publishers. The two infamous men were Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. The rivalry of these two men tarnished the purpose of journalism back then creating sensationalism known as "yellow journalism." William Randolph Hearst alone instigated the war against the Spanish in Cuba. Hearst hired reporters and people to create atrocious fake stories that fueled the nation's anger. He was immoral and selfish concerned to win only his dispute.

Ultimately, the lies Pulitzer's and Hearst's paper published cost the nation their rationality and dignity. The principles of journalism were badly abused and the people were deprived of the truth they deserved. It was and is a peril when the power one individual holds has the capability to destroy so many. The society we live in any given time conditions most of us to simply believe and as a result it is hard for us to see clearly. It often takes history for people to unfold the reality of a situation. It is wise to pay attention to the history for they say it repeats itself. Today, we know the principles of exemplary journalism, but let us not stop doubting the shadows that cover the truth.