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The Poynter 50
As Poynter celebrates its 50th anniversary, we look back at 50 of the most significant media moments and people of the past 50 years
In 1975, when the Poynter Institute was founded, there was no internet, no social media, no cable television. Imagine all that has happened since then, all the influential people who have come along, all the pivotal moments that have taken place and, most of all, how drastically the journalism and media industry has changed.
The Poynter Institute has been there every step of the way, helping to navigate these changes, understand their impacts and guide journalism into its next chapter.
As Poynter celebrates its 50th anniversary, we look back at 50 of the most significant media moments and people of the past 50 years, while also detailing how they have impacted our future. We would love your feedback. Please send us your reactions and offer your suggestions.
No story is too big or too small, too mainstream or too niche. From the rise of cable news to the release of the iconic “All the President’s Men”; from tweeting to blogging; from O.J. to Murdoch, this project contemplates how we got here and where we’re headed.
This is The Poynter 50 — a reflection on the moments and people who defined the past and continue to shape the future of journalism.
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ProPublica made nonprofit news work — and redefined impact
Launched in 2008, ProPublica pioneered a sustainable nonprofit newsroom model, proving that impact — not clicks — could drive funding for journalism
TMZ’s scoop on Jackson’s death signaled the rise of digital news
It shattered expectations for who breaks the news, proving that speed and aggressive digital reporting could outrun even the most established outlets
Darnella Frazier’s video proved anyone can hold power in check
Her 9-minute video of George Floyd’s murder became undeniable proof, fueling a global movement and reinforcing the power of citizen journalism
The night Baghdad lit up, the 24-hour news cycle took over
CNN’s live coverage of Operation Desert Storm launched a new era in television news
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