Taking on the World: Joseph and Stewart Alsop - Guardians of the American Century

Through journals like "The Saturday Evening Post," "The New York Herald Tribune," and "Newsweek," journalists Joseph (1910-1989) and Stewart (1914-1974) Alsop espoused militant anticommunism and a robust vision of America as the world's legitimate leader. They enjoyed greater influence than most journalists, having unequaled access to presidents from Truman to Carter, and especially Kennedy, whom they advised on sweeping matters of state. Together, this journalistic tag team redefined the role of the media in American politics. Those who complain that the so-called liberal news media enjoy too much power today ought to take note that the way was paved by these archconservatives. This is a fine and highly readable addition to recent American history.