Dan Rather, one of America’s most renowned journalists, has had a career spanning over six decades. Known for his long stint as the anchor of "CBS Evening News," Rather reported on some of the most significant events of the 20th and early 21st centuries, including the Vietnam War, Watergate, and the civil rights movement. Despite an illustrious career, his journey has not been without controversies, including the famous "Memogate" scandal that eventually led to his departure from CBS.
Today, at 92, Rather remains active and engaged, using platforms like Twitter to share insights on journalism, politics, and society, continuing to be a respected voice in media.
Key Takeaways
- Dan Rather, born on October 31, 1931, is a legendary journalist who has been a prominent figure in American media for over 60 years.
- He anchored "CBS Evening News" for 24 years and covered landmark events, including the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal.
- A major controversy, known as "Memogate," involving his reporting on George W. Bush’s military record, led to his departure from CBS in 2006.
- Rather is still alive and active on social media, especially Twitter, where he shares his views on current affairs and media ethics.
Dan Rather’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Dan Rather was born in Wharton, Texas, on October 31, 1931. Growing up during the Great Depression, he developed a strong sense of resilience and determination that later became trademarks of his journalistic career. After studying journalism at Sam Houston State University, Rather embarked on a career in media, initially working for small radio stations in Texas. His big break came when he joined CBS News in 1962 as a correspondent.
Dan Rather’s Rise to Fame
Rather’s reporting quickly gained attention, especially for his in-depth coverage of major events. He became a household name in 1963 after covering the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Known for his bold and tenacious approach, he became the anchor of the "CBS Evening News" in 1981, a role he held for 24 years.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dan Rather |
| Born | October 31, 1931, Wharton, Texas |
| Notable Position | Anchor, CBS Evening News (1981-2005) |
| Famous for | Coverage of Vietnam War, Watergate |
| Departure from CBS | 2006 due to "Memogate" controversy |
| Current Activity | Engaging on Twitter, commentary on media |
The "Memogate" Scandal – A Turning Point in Dan Rather’s Career
One of the most notable controversies in Rather’s career came in 2004, just before the U.S. presidential election. Known as "Memogate" or the Killian documents controversy, Rather reported on documents alleging that President George W. Bush received preferential treatment during his National Guard service in the 1970s. The authenticity of the documents was soon called into question, leading to a major scandal for CBS and Rather.
What Happened in the Scandal?
The documents Rather presented were later found to be forgeries, raising questions about journalistic integrity and the need for rigorous verification. The fallout from the incident was immense, leading to Rather’s departure from CBS in 2006. This episode became a significant moment in journalism, illustrating the critical importance of source verification and fact-checking.
Dan Rather’s Age and Legacy
At 92 years old, Dan Rather’s legacy continues to influence journalism. His career set standards for news coverage, and he is regarded as one of the most respected figures in American media. Even after his exit from CBS, Rather continued to engage with the public, discussing media ethics, democracy, and political issues. His longevity in the field and his active presence on social media highlight his ongoing dedication to journalism.
Dan Rather’s Presence on Twitter
In recent years, Dan Rather has found a new platform in Twitter, where he connects with a younger audience and shares his insights on modern issues. His tweets often reflect his values, with a focus on truth, integrity, and accountability in journalism. For many of his followers, Rather’s posts serve as reminders of the high standards he upheld throughout his career and his continued commitment to honest reporting.
FAQs
When was Dan Rather born?
Dan Rather was born on October 31, 1931, in Wharton, Texas.
How old is Dan Rather in 2024?
As of 2024, Dan Rather is 92 years old.
What is the "Memogate" scandal?
The "Memogate" scandal, also known as the Killian documents controversy, occurred in 2004 when Rather reported on unverified documents questioning President George W. Bush’s National Guard service. The documents were later deemed forgeries, leading to widespread criticism and Rather’s departure from CBS.
Is Dan Rather still alive?
Yes, Dan Rather is still alive and active on social media, where he often discusses current events and journalism.
What does Dan Rather do on Twitter?
Dan Rather uses Twitter to share his views on journalism, ethics, democracy, and political issues, reaching a broad audience with his reflections and commentary.
What events made Dan Rather famous?
Dan Rather gained national fame for his coverage of major events such as the assassination of President Kennedy, the Vietnam War, and the Watergate scandal.