Tom Brokaw
Full Name and Common Aliases
Thomas John Brokaw, commonly known as Tom Brokaw, is a name synonymous with American journalism. Over the decades, Brokaw has become a trusted voice in news media, known for his insightful reporting and authoritative presence.
Birth and Death Dates
Tom Brokaw was born on February 6, 1940. As of the latest updates, he is still alive and continues to contribute to the field of journalism and public discourse.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Tom Brokaw is an American journalist and author. He is best known for his long-standing role as a television news anchor and managing editor for NBC Nightly News, where he became a household name.
Early Life and Background
Tom Brokaw was born in Webster, South Dakota, to Eugenia "Jean" Brokaw, a post-office clerk, and Anthony Orville Brokaw, a construction foreman. Growing up in a modest household, Brokaw's early life was marked by a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education. He attended Yankton Senior High School, where he was an active student, participating in various extracurricular activities. Brokaw went on to study at the University of South Dakota, where he majored in political science. His early experiences in South Dakota instilled in him a profound understanding of American life, which would later inform his journalistic career.
Major Accomplishments
Tom Brokaw's career is marked by numerous accomplishments that have cemented his status as a leading figure in journalism. He joined NBC News in 1966, and by 1982, he became the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News. During his tenure, Brokaw covered pivotal events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and multiple presidential elections. His reporting earned him numerous awards, including several Emmys and Peabody Awards. Brokaw's ability to convey complex stories with clarity and empathy made him a trusted figure in American households.
Notable Works or Actions
Beyond his role as a news anchor, Tom Brokaw is also a celebrated author. His book, "The Greatest Generation," published in 1998, pays tribute to the generation that grew up during the Great Depression and fought in World War II. The book was a bestseller and resonated with readers for its heartfelt portrayal of resilience and sacrifice. Brokaw's other notable works include "A Long Way from Home: Growing Up in the American Heartland" and "Boom!: Voices of the Sixties Personal Reflections on the '60s and Today," which further showcase his narrative prowess and deep understanding of American history.
Impact and Legacy
Tom Brokaw's impact on journalism and American culture is profound. As a news anchor, he set a standard for integrity and professionalism that continues to influence aspiring journalists. His ability to connect with audiences and provide insightful analysis during times of national crisis has left a lasting legacy. Brokaw's work has not only informed the public but also shaped the way news is delivered and consumed. His contributions to literature, particularly in chronicling the stories of ordinary Americans, have enriched the national narrative and provided a deeper understanding of the American experience.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Tom Brokaw is widely quoted and remembered for his eloquence and ability to articulate the complexities of the human condition. His quotes often reflect a deep understanding of societal issues and a commitment to truth and integrity. Brokaw's reflections on the American spirit, leadership, and resilience resonate with audiences across generations. His work as a journalist and author has provided a voice to those who might otherwise be unheard, making his insights and observations enduringly relevant. Whether through his reporting or his writing, Brokaw's contributions continue to inspire and inform, ensuring his place as a respected and quoted figure in American history.
Quotes by Tom Brokaw
Tom Brokaw's insights on:
1920 was an auspicious year for a young person to enter the world as an American citizen.
In your pursuit of your passions, always be young. In your relationship with others, always be grown-up. Set a standard, and stay faithful to it.
The WWII generation shares so many common values: duty, honor, country, personal responsibility and the marriage vow ” For better or for worse – it was the last generation in which, broadly speaking, marriage was a commitment and divorce was not an option.
Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed, to a new generation of Americans, born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace.” – From John F. Kennedy’s inaugural speech, January 1961 Given.
Healthcare workers are not being shot at, obviously, but they are exposed to dangerous diseases; they lead unconventional, all-hours lives; they are mission-oriented and they work in a hierarchical environment, with the physicians on top and orderlies doing the grunt work at the bottom.
Washington tends to be full of too many traps. I think reporters there do a lot of attending news briefings and news conferences expecting to get the real news out of those relatively sterile environments. But you’ve got to deal with the obscure people as well as the names.
Ratings to me are a little like the Chinese Government. I don’t fully understand what makes a rating go. I don’t know what makes the American television audience respond to one person and not t another. There very seldom are great differences between many television personalities.