The Decibel
How The Globe and Mail covered and influenced Canada’s history
Dec 12, 2024
John Ibbitson, a seasoned reporter and columnist for The Globe and Mail, joins health reporter Kelly Grant to discuss their book, ‘A Nation's Paper.’ They delve into the newspaper's 180-year influence on Canada’s history, highlighting its pioneering coverage from the 1918 Spanish flu to the COVID-19 pandemic. They reflect on the challenges of media representation during crises and the evolving societal perceptions of immigration. Their engaging insights reveal the complex relationship between journalism and the Canadian narrative.
25:03
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Globe and Mail's historical coverage demonstrates the evolving responsibility of media in providing comprehensive information during public health crises, notably contrasting reporting on the 1918 pandemic with COVID-19.
- An analysis of early immigration coverage by The Globe reveals how media narratives influenced public perception and policy, highlighting the need to address historical prejudices for a more inclusive identity.
Deep dives
Uncovering Historical Narratives
The project aims to explore how The Globe and Mail has documented significant events in Canadian history, highlighting both the successes and failures in its reporting. A key motivation for this examination stemmed from the realization that there had never been a comprehensive history of the newspaper, despite its pivotal role in shaping public discourse. By selecting thirty notable issues or events, the project intends to show how the newspaper intertwined with Canada's evolving identity and societal views. This initiative not only pays homage to the publication's legacy but also prompts Canadians to reflect on their historical narratives and how they impact contemporary perspectives.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
