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Sydney J. HarrisAmerican writer and journalist
Date of Birth: 14.09.1917
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Sidney Justin Harris: Notable Journalist and Author
- Journalistic Career
- Literary Achievements
- Other Accomplishments
- Personal Life and Legacy
Sidney Justin Harris: Notable Journalist and Author
Early Life and EducationSydney Justin Harris was born in London, but his family relocated to the United States when he was five years old. He grew up in Chicago, where he attended high school with his lifelong friend, Saul Bellow. Harris began his journalism career at the Chicago Herald and Examiner in 1934 while pursuing a philosophy degree at the University of Chicago.
Journalistic Career
After university, Harris became a drama critic (1941) and columnist (1944) for the Chicago Daily News. He held these positions until the newspaper ceased publication in 1978. Harris then continued his column for its affiliate, the Chicago Sun-Times, until his death in 1986.
Harris' political views were considered liberal, and his work earned him a place on President Nixon's "enemies list." He was an outspoken advocate for women's rights and civil rights. His final column was an essay opposing the death penalty.
Literary Achievements
Harris penned 11 books throughout his career. His daily column, "Strictly Personal," was syndicated to approximately 200 newspapers in the United States and Canada. Harris believed in the power of aphorisms, penning memorable quotes such as:
"Superior people are only those who allow others to discover it in them; the need to make it apparent robs them of the very virtue to which they aspire." - "Plays of Eight" (1982)
Other Accomplishments
In addition to his journalistic work, Harris was a drama critic, teacher, and lecturer. He received numerous honorary doctorates throughout his career, including from Villa Maria College, Shimer College, and Lenoir-Rhyne College. He was a guest scholar at Lenoir-Rhyne College in North Carolina from 1980-1982.
Personal Life and Legacy
Harris was married twice and had five children. He passed away at the age of 69 due to complications from heart bypass surgery. Harris' writings and advocacy continue to inspire generations of journalists and readers alike.
