Murdoch and His Influence on Media
Australian Journalism Mogul Has Made An International Splash
From his privileged beginnings in Australia, to his current supremacy in the mass media world, Rupert Murdoch has irrevocably changed the face of journalism in the U.S. and around the world. He has sensationalized, editorialized and commercialized the field, to the dismay of some, and the delight of others. Understanding what he has contributed to the realm of mainstream journalism is essential in comprehending what Murdoch’s lasting legacy will truly be.
Early Life
From his beginnings in the world of newspapers over 40 years ago, Rupert Murdoch has truly become a mass media icon. Born in Melbourne, Australia in 1931, Murdoch’s father acquired numerous shares in newspaper companies before he died when young Rupert was only 22. Due to a perilous financial situation, Murdoch and his mother made the decision, along with advisors, to sell most of the shares. Rupert was left to work with a paper called ‘The News’ under the tutelage of his father’s friend Rohan Rivett. This relationship would prove to be important later in Murdoch’s journalism career.
Media Beginnings
Murdoch had little experience as a managing editor when he took over The News, but he was quick to exert his influence. Most notably, Murdoch’s penchant for sensational stories was seen when he directed The News to take a critical stance on the guilty plea of an Aboriginal man convicted of killing a young girl. The furor caused by The News’ investigation into this matter eventually led to a reduced sentence and an inquiry into the whole affair. At the inquiry, it was determined that Murdoch’s menacing in the affair had led to a miscarriage of justice because the man in question was indeed guilty. Murdoch only got off the hook by agreeing to fire Rivett, his father’s good friend, and his personal mentor. This incident proved to be important in showing the character of young Murdoch and the way he would do business in the future.
Journalistic Ambitions
After launching The Australian, Australia’s first daily, Rupert Murdoch soon turned his attention to the United Kingdom. Here, he acquired the News of the World in 1969, followed shortly after by The Sun and The Times. Murdoch was labeled the “Dirty Digger” by some in the British press, but his ascent to the top of Australian and British media ownership was undisputable.
Murdoch soon turned his sights on the United States, eventually becoming an American citizen, and becoming a leader in the trend towards internet news and media.
Style
Murdoch is, by all accounts, very involved with the editorial side of his newspapers. His political preferences have been somewhat varied (he has supported Labour, New Labour, Liberal, Conservative and Republican candidates in various countries of interest), but he has continued to champion the idea of free trade and market expansion. In the twenty-first century, there have been many stories of Murdoch interfering when it comes to the Chinese market, one in which this media mogul is desperate to be seen as a leader.
Conclusion
While it is difficult to foresee what the future holds for Mr. Murdoch, his style as a mass media owner is clear: he believes that the he has the right to make decisions about what a paper or news station can and cannot say. He is not afraid to make his presence known at the news outlets he owns, and there are numerous incidents of unhappy former employees.
Rupert Murdoch marches to the beat of his own drummer, and when a look at his history is done, it becomes clear that this is a pattern that has been established for many years.
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