With a continued emphasis on interpretation and analysis, The Press and America remains the classic authority on the history of mass media in the United States. Recognizing that the development of America's journalism is inherently and integrally related to the cultural identity of its people, the heart of this book is an examination of American life and the American media.

The Press and America traces how major events in U.S. history were covered by reporters, editors and broadcasters and how other writers, advertisers and advocates influenced and continue to influence events in this country. While examining the media's influence on the course of events, this text also points out how events have determined the shape and character of the media. Within this framework, the authors relay the special story of the men and women of journalism and of the institutions and traditions they created.