On the Media

How Conservative Talk Radio Came to Dominate the Airwaves

14 snips
Nov 29, 2024
Katie Thornton, a reporter on conservative talk radio's history, joins Nicole Hemmer, a historian and author, to unpack the rise of conservative media. They dive into how early radio programming shifted from the 1930s, the impact of the FCC's Fairness Doctrine, and the transformation of the media landscape during the Civil Rights Era. The discussion highlights the emergence of influential figures like Rush Limbaugh and the connection between Christian media and conservative talk radio, showcasing the profound effects on American political discourse.
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INSIGHT

Radio's Golden Age

  • In the 1930s, radio was central to American culture, hosting debates on politics and the future.
  • The Great Depression fueled these discussions, with figures like Huey Long and Father Coughlin gaining prominence.
ANECDOTE

Father Coughlin's Influence

  • Father Coughlin, with a vast audience, used radio to spread anti-Semitic views, blaming Jews for persecution.
  • This hate speech, alongside rising fascism fears, led to the FCC's Mayflower Doctrine, restricting opinions on air.
INSIGHT

Fairness Doctrine's Initial Impact

  • Post-WWII, the FCC reversed course, mandating coverage of controversial issues with diverse viewpoints.
  • This Fairness Doctrine was initially embraced by conservatives as it provided them with airtime.
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