Dan Rather

Easton Press Dan Rather books

The Camera Never Blinks - signed first edition - 1994

Deadlines and Datelines - signed first edition - 1999
The American Dream - signed first edition - 2001
Rather Outspoken - signed first edition - 2013

 

 

Journalist Dan Rather

Dan Rather, born on October 31, 1931, in Wharton, Texas, is a veteran American journalist and one of the most prominent figures in broadcast journalism. With a career spanning over six decades, Rather has left an indelible mark on the field of journalism, earning a reputation for his integrity, tenacity, and commitment to truth-telling. Raised in Houston, Texas, Rather developed an early interest in journalism, serving as editor of his high school newspaper before attending Sam Houston State University, where he studied journalism and earned a degree in the field. He began his career in journalism as a reporter for the Associated Press and later worked as a reporter and anchor for various local television stations in Texas.

In 1961, Rather joined CBS News as a correspondent, marking the beginning of his illustrious career with the network. Over the years, he covered some of the most significant events in American history, including the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and the Watergate scandal. His reporting from the front lines of these historic events earned him widespread acclaim and established him as one of the preeminent journalists of his time. In 1981, Rather succeeded Walter Cronkite as the anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News, a position he held for 24 years. During his tenure, Rather distinguished himself with his incisive reporting, authoritative presence, and unwavering dedication to journalistic principles. He became known for his catchphrase "Courage," which he used to sign off his broadcasts, encapsulating his belief in the importance of fearless and uncompromising journalism.

Throughout his career, Rather has faced his share of controversies and challenges, including a contentious departure from CBS News in 2005 following the fallout from a disputed report on President George W. Bush's military service. Despite these setbacks, Rather has remained steadfast in his commitment to journalism, continuing to report on current events through various platforms, including his own production company, News and Guts Media.

In addition to his work in journalism, Rather is also a prolific author, having written several books on politics, history, and current events. His memoir, Rather Outspoken: My Life in the News, offers readers a candid and insightful look into his life and career, providing valuable lessons and reflections on the state of journalism in the modern era. Dan Rather's enduring legacy as a journalist is a testament to his courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to truth and transparency. Throughout his career, he has exemplified the highest ideals of journalism, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, peers, and audiences around the world.

The Camera Never Blinks: Adventures of a TV Journalist

The Camera Never Blinks is a captivating autobiography. Published in 1977, the book offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of one of the most influential figures in broadcast journalism. Dan Rather rose to prominence as a correspondent and anchor for CBS News, earning a reputation for his fearless reporting and unwavering commitment to journalistic principles. "The Camera Never Blinks" chronicles Rather's remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Texas to the pinnacle of the television news industry. Central to the book is Rather's exploration of his experiences as a television journalist covering some of the most significant events of the 20th century. From the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War to the Watergate scandal and the Iranian Revolution, Rather offers firsthand accounts of his coverage of these historic events, providing readers with valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities of reporting on the front lines of history.

The Camera Never Blinks also delves into Rather's personal life, including his upbringing in Texas, his early experiences in journalism, and the impact of his career on his family and relationships. Through candid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Rather invites readers to accompany him on a journey of self-discovery and growth, revealing the highs and lows of life in the fast-paced world of television news. With its vivid storytelling and compelling narrative, The Camera Never Blinks stands as a testament to Dan Rather's enduring legacy as a journalist and storyteller. Through his memoir, he offers readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the television news industry, as well as valuable lessons on the importance of integrity, courage, and perseverance in the pursuit of truth. From his early days as a cub reporter to his rise to prominence as one of the most respected journalists of his generation, Rather's story is one of determination, passion, and unwavering dedication to the principles of journalism. "The Camera Never Blinks" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of television news and the life of one of its most iconic figures.

Deadlines and Datelines: Essays at the Turn of the Century

Deadlines and Datelines is a collection of insightful essays written by renowned American journalist and news anchor Dan Rather. Published in 1999, the book offers readers a compelling exploration of some of the most pressing issues and events of the late 20th century, as seen through the eyes of one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism. Dan Rather as a correspondent and anchor for CBS News, earning a reputation for his fearless reporting and unwavering commitment to journalistic principles. Deadlines and Datelines showcases Rather's remarkable ability to distill complex topics into engaging and thought-provoking essays, providing readers with valuable insights into the world of news and current events.

Central to the book is Rather's exploration of the transformative events and cultural shifts that defined the latter part of the 20th century. From the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union to the rise of the internet and the globalization of the economy, Rather offers incisive commentary on the forces shaping the world at the turn of the century. Deadlines and Datelines also delves into Rather's personal experiences as a journalist, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the television news industry. Through candid anecdotes and reflections, he provides valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities of reporting on the front lines of history, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

With its blend of astute analysis, vivid storytelling, and passionate advocacy for truth and transparency in journalism, Deadlines and Datelines stands as a testament to Dan Rather's enduring legacy as a journalist and storyteller. Through his essays, he offers readers a deeper understanding of the events and issues that shaped the late 20th century, as well as valuable lessons on the importance of integrity, courage, and perseverance in the pursuit of truth. From his coverage of major news events to his reflections on the evolving role of the media in society, Rather's insights are as relevant and timely today as they were at the turn of the century. "Deadlines and Datelines" is a compelling read for anyone interested in the history of journalism and the impact of news on our world.

The American Dream: Stories From the Heart of Our Nation

The American Dream is a heartfelt and illuminating exploration of the American experience written by esteemed journalist Dan Rather. Published in 2001, the book presents a collection of narratives that capture the essence of the American spirit through the lives of ordinary people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. With The American Dream, Rather ventures beyond the realm of breaking news to delve into the human stories that define the fabric of American society. Central to the book are the stories of individuals whose lives embody the ideals of perseverance, resilience, and hope that lie at the heart of the American Dream. From immigrants striving for a better life to veterans overcoming adversity, Rather's narratives offer poignant insights into the triumphs and challenges faced by ordinary Americans in pursuit of their dreams. Through vivid storytelling and compassionate empathy, Rather brings to life a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles, aspirations, and aspirations. From the heartland of Middle America to the bustling streets of New York City, he explores the rich tapestry of American life, celebrating the values of hard work, community, and the pursuit of happiness that bind us together as a nation.

The American Dream also serves as a meditation on the enduring promise of America and the responsibilities that come with it. Rather reflects on the evolving meaning of the American Dream in an ever-changing world, grappling with questions of social justice, equality, and the legacy of systemic inequality that continues to shape the lives of millions of Americans. With its blend of empathy, insight, and reverence for the human spirit, The American Dream stands as a testament to Dan Rather's enduring commitment to storytelling and his belief in the power of narrative to inspire and unite us as a nation. Through his narratives, he invites readers to contemplate the true meaning of the American Dream and the role we all play in shaping the future of our country.

Rather Outspoken: My Life in the News

Rather Outspoken is a candid and compelling autobiography. Published in 2012, the book offers readers an intimate and insightful look into the life and career of one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism. With Rather Outspoken, he invites readers to accompany him on a journey through the highs and lows of his remarkable career, offering candid reflections on his experiences in the news industry and the events that shaped the world during his tenure. Central to the book is Rather's exploration of his early years in journalism, from his humble beginnings as a cub reporter in Texas to his rise to prominence as one of the most recognizable faces in television news. He reflects on the challenges he faced as a young journalist, including his efforts to break into the industry and the obstacles he encountered along the way. Rather Outspoken also delves into some of the most significant events of the latter half of the 20th century, as seen through the eyes of one of America's most seasoned journalists. From the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War to the Watergate scandal and the rise of the internet, Rather offers firsthand accounts of his coverage of these historic events, providing readers with valuable insights into the challenges and responsibilities of reporting on the front lines of history. Throughout the book, Rather's trademark wit, warmth, and passion shine through, as he shares anecdotes and reflections from his storied career. He offers candid insights into the inner workings of the television news industry, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

With its blend of storytelling, analysis, and reflection, Rather Outspoken stands as a testament to Dan Rather's enduring legacy as a journalist and storyteller. Through his memoir, he offers readers a deeper understanding of the events and issues that shaped the latter half of the 20th century, as well as valuable lessons on the importance of integrity, courage, and perseverance in the pursuit of truth.

Dan Rather quotes

"Courage is being afraid but going on anyhow."

"The dream begins, most of the time, with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you on to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called truth."

"Journalism is not a profession or a trade. It is a cheap catch-all for fuckoffs and misfits—a false doorway to the backside of life, a filthy piss-ridden little hole nailed off by the building inspector, but just deep enough for a wino to curl up from the sidewalk and masturbate like a chimp in a zoo-cage."

"The one function TV news performs very well is that when there is no news, we give it to you with the same emphasis as if there were."

"To err is human but to really foul up requires a computer."

"I think people will be surprised to find that I have a sense of humor."

"An intellectual snob is someone who can listen to the William Tell Overture and not think of The Lone Ranger."

"Americans will put up with anything provided it doesn't block traffic."

"In times of danger large groups rise to the highest pitch of enthusiasm, courage, and sacrifice . . . Mankind will be refashioned and history rewritten when this law is understood and obeyed."

"Americans will listen, but they do not care to read. War and Peace must wait for the leisure of retirement, which never really comes: meanwhile it helps to furnish the living room."