The faith in facts held by American journalists was thrown into doubt in the 1920s. Why did this happen?

The faith in facts held by American journalists was thrown into doubt in the 1920s due to a combination of factors. One major factor was the rise of sensationalist and tabloid-style journalism, which prioritized attracting readers with sensational stories over accurately reporting the facts. This shift was fueled by the increasing competition between newspapers and the desire to increase circulation and profits.

Additionally, the 1920s saw the emergence of propaganda and biased reporting, particularly in relation to political and social issues. Journalists and media outlets were often influenced by powerful interest groups and political agendas, leading to the spread of misinformation and biased reporting.

Furthermore, the advent of new technologies, such as radio and film, also played a role in undermining the faith in journalistic facts. These mediums allowed for the rapid spread of information, but also made it easier for false or exaggerated stories to gain traction.

Overall, the combination of sensationalism, propaganda, and technological advancements in the 1920s led to a widespread distrust in the accuracy and reliability of American journalism. This period marked a significant turning point in the history of journalism, prompting a reevaluation of journalistic ethics and the importance of factual reporting.