The Washington Correspondent in the Progressive Era: The New York Times' Charles Willis Thompson

Abstract

The article traces the early career of Charles Willis Thompson, New York Times' Washington correspondent and political commentator during the first two decades of the twentieth century, a formative period in American politics, economy, and world affairs. Thompson stood out for his dogged reporting and colorful analysis, skills that were valued by Adolph Ochs, the Times' new owner, and Carr Van Anda, its new managing editor. Thompson used these talents and relationships as he navigated between his responsibility as the “people's lobby” and his obligation to those political leaders on whom he depended for information. He managed this challenge by appreciating the difficult job of public officials and conveying that understanding to readers, a formula for press and politics often wanting in today's political coverage.