Harry Reasoner

Harry Reasoner was a renowned American journalist and news anchor, best known for his work on CBS News and ABC News. He was a prominent figure in American television news, working alongside notable anchors such as Walter Cronkite, Edward R. Murrow, and Howard K. Smith. Reasoner's career spanned over four decades, during which he covered significant events, including the Apollo 11 moon landing, the Watergate scandal, and the Iran hostage crisis. He was also a frequent contributor to 60 Minutes, a news magazine program created by Don Hewitt.

● Early Life and Education

Harry Reasoner was born in Dakota City, Iowa, to Eunice Nicholls Reasoner and Harry Reasoner Sr.. He grew up in Humboldt, Iowa, and developed an interest in journalism at a young age, inspired by the works of Ernie Pyle and Edward R. Murrow. Reasoner attended Stanford University, where he studied journalism and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduating in 1943, he served in the United States Navy during World War II, stationed on the USS Shangri-La (CV-38) in the Pacific Theater.

● Career

Reasoner's journalism career began in 1948, when he joined CBS News as a reporter and anchor. He worked alongside notable journalists, including Douglas Edwards, John Cameron Swayze, and Chet Huntley. In the 1950s and 1960s, Reasoner covered significant events, such as the Korean War, the Cuban Revolution, and the Civil Rights Movement. He was also a frequent contributor to CBS Reports, a documentary series that explored topics such as the Vietnam War and the Space Race. In 1970, Reasoner joined ABC News, where he worked as a anchor and correspondent, covering events such as the 1972 United States presidential election and the Camp David Accords. He was a member of the Peabody Awards board of directors and a recipient of the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award.

● Personal Life

Reasoner was married to Lois Weber Reasoner from 1944 until their divorce in 1987. He had one daughter, Elizabeth Reasoner, and was a member of the Episcopal Church. Reasoner was an avid golfer and sailor, and enjoyed spending time at his summer home in Martha's Vineyard. He was friends with notable figures, including Andy Rooney, Mike Wallace, and Dan Rather. Reasoner was also a supporter of the American Red Cross and the United Service Organizations (USO).

● Death and Legacy

Harry Reasoner died on August 6, 1991, at his home in Westport, Connecticut, after suffering a brain hemorrhage. He was 68 years old. Reasoner's legacy as a journalist and news anchor continues to be celebrated, with many notable figures, including Peter Jennings, Ted Koppel, and Katie Couric, citing him as an inspiration. The Harry Reasoner Award is presented annually by the Iowa Broadcast News Association to recognize excellence in journalism. Reasoner's work can be found in the archives of the Library of Congress, the National Archives and Records Administration, and the Peabody Awards Collection at the University of Georgia. Category:American journalists