Sam Donaldson
Sam Donaldson: A Life of Journalistic Excellence
Full Name and Common Aliases
Samuel Shelton "Sam" Donaldson is one of the most recognizable faces in American journalism.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on November 27, 1927, Donaldson passed away on April 20, 2021, at the age of 93.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Donaldson was an American television news anchor and journalist. He worked extensively for ABC News, serving as a White House correspondent during two presidencies: Richard Nixon's and Ronald Reagan's.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in El Paso, Texas, Donaldson developed an interest in politics at an early age. After graduating from the University of Texas with a degree in journalism, he began his career in 1950 as a radio reporter for KTSM in El Paso.
Donaldson's entry into television came when he joined KVTV, also based in El Paso, where he worked as a news anchor and reporter. His early success on local television led to opportunities at larger networks. He eventually made the move to Washington D.C., covering national politics for ABC News.
Major Accomplishments
Donaldson's tenure as White House correspondent spanned from 1977 until his retirement in 1996. During this period, he became known for his tough but fair questioning of Presidents Nixon and Reagan. His interviews often probed into sensitive areas, including foreign policy and the economy.
One notable instance was when Donaldson confronted President Nixon on the Watergate scandal during a press conference. The exchange showcased Donaldson's willingness to hold those in power accountable, setting him apart as a dedicated journalist.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Donaldson's most memorable work includes his coverage of:
The Fall of Saigon: He was one of the few journalists on the ground when North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon in 1975.
The Iran Hostage Crisis: Donaldson reported live from Tehran as American diplomats were held hostage for over a year.
* The Soviet Union's Perestroika and Glasnost: His coverage of Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms provided insight into the inner workings of the Soviet government.
Donaldson also won numerous awards, including an Emmy Award and multiple Peabody Awards, for his work in television journalism.
Impact and Legacy
Sam Donaldson left an indelible mark on American journalism. His dedication to holding those in power accountable, even when it was unpopular or uncomfortable, set a high standard for future generations of journalists.
Donaldson's influence extends beyond his own reporting. He inspired others with his tenacity and commitment to truth, demonstrating the importance of a free press in a democratic society.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Sam Donaldson is widely quoted and remembered for his unwavering dedication to journalism, his ability to ask tough questions, and his passion for uncovering the truth. His legacy continues to inspire journalists today, serving as a reminder of the crucial role that investigative reporting plays in holding those in power accountable.
Donaldson's contributions to American journalism make him an iconic figure, remembered for his hard-hitting yet respectful approach to interviewing public figures.
Quotes by Sam Donaldson
As I went to college, I went into radio and television. Now I suppose most people think that’s one step ahead of basket weaving as a major in college, but it was part of the journalism department.
I didn’t come east of the Mississippi for the first time in my life until I was 26 years of age, but I knew. I read magazines, I listened to radio, I watched television. I knew there was something out there, and I wanted a part of it.
And on election night I’d go down to city hall in El Paso, Texas and cover the election. In those days, of course, we didn’t have exit polls. You didn’t know who had won the election until they actually counted the votes. I thought that was exciting too.
There was a little bit of ham in me. And there’s a lot of people say there’s a lot of ham in me.
In 27 years of reporting from Washington, I’ve never heard a President admit he made a mistake.
So when I cover the president, I try to remember two things: First, if you don’t ask, you don’t find out; and second, the questions don’t do the damage. Only the answers do.
And really, the basis, I think, of achieving some success in what I want to do today comes from my mother’s push to get me to read and to make something of myself from the standpoint of an education.
If you sent me to cover a pie-baking contest on Mother’s Day, I’m going to ask dear old Mom why she used artificial sweetener or stole the apples!