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Pulitzer JosephAmerican journalist, newspaper owner, founder of the Pulitzer Prize
Date of Birth: 10.04.1847
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Political Involvement and Business Acumen
- Acquisition of Major Newspapers
- Controversial and Effective Journalism
- Declining Health and Retirement
- Legacy: The Pulitzer Prize
Early Life and Career
Joseph Pulitzer was born on April 10, 1847, in Mako, Hungary. He served in the military in Budapest and immigrated to the United States in 1864 to fight in the Civil War. After the war, he settled in St. Louis and began his journalism career at the Westliche Post in 1868.
Political Involvement and Business Acumen
In 1869, Pulitzer was elected to the Missouri State Legislature. He played a role in the founding of the Liberal Republican Party in his state and campaigned for Horace Greeley in the 1872 presidential election. After Greeley's defeat, Pulitzer switched his political allegiance to the Democratic Party. In 1874, he purchased shares in the Westliche Post, which he later sold for a profit.
Acquisition of Major Newspapers
In 1878, Pulitzer acquired the Dispatch and Post newspapers. He merged them to create the Post-Dispatch, which became the most influential newspaper in St. Louis. In 1882, he purchased the New York World, which he transformed into a leading voice of the Democratic Party. He also founded the Evening World in 1887.
Controversial and Effective Journalism
Pulitzer's newspapers were known for their sensationalist reporting, political exposés, crime stories, and human interest features. He used techniques such as illustrated news, sports coverage, and women's sections to appeal to a wide audience. His journalistic methods led to the coining of the term "yellow journalism."
Declining Health and Retirement
Due to poor health, Pulitzer retired from active journalism in 1890. However, he remained interested in politics and current events. He died on October 29, 1911.
Legacy: The Pulitzer Prize
Pulitzer's will established the Pulitzer Prize, which is awarded annually for outstanding achievements in journalism, literature, and music. The Pulitzer Prize Board, appointed by Columbia University, awards the prizes, which number around 25.
