Drilled S3, Ep 7: John Hill and the Tobacco-Oil-Plastic Triangle
Feb 27, 2020
John Hill, founder of the influential public relations firm Hill & Knowlton, crafted strategies for powerful clients like Standard Oil and the Tobacco Industry Research Committee. In a captivating discussion, he reveals how PR manipulated public opinion during crises while downplaying labor movements. Hill details the sinister ties between the tobacco and oil industries, showcasing deceptive tactics that even misled media icons like Edward R. Murrow. Explore the evolution of PR and its chilling impact on environmental issues and public health.
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John Hill's Career
- John Hill, founder of Hill & Knowlton, was an Ivy Lee devotee who worked for Standard Oil.
- He strategized against labor movements and the New Deal, representing both the American Petroleum Institute and the Tobacco Industry Research Committee.
Hill's Approach to PR
- John Hill emulated Ivy Lee's distinguished Southern gentleman persona, preferring to stay behind the scenes.
- Unlike other PR figures of his time, Hill avoided the press, maintaining a conservative image.
Anti-Union Tactics
- Hill's firm created anti-union pamphlets and bribed journalist George Sokolsky to write pro-business articles.
- This was during the period of the New Deal and rising labor movements.