American Cassandra: The Life of Dorothy Thompson

A Trailblazing Journalist Who Spoke Truth to Power

Dorothy Thompson was an American journalist, broadcaster, and author who rose to prominence in the 1930s and 1940s. She became known as the "American Cassandra" for her prescient warnings about the dangers of fascism and her unwavering commitment to social justice.

American Cassandra: The Life of Dorothy Thompson

by Peter Kurth

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4940 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	828 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Thompson was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1893. She graduated from Syracuse University in 1914 and began her career as a journalist in New York City. In 1934, she joined the New York Herald Tribune as a foreign correspondent and was soon reporting from Germany and Austria, where she witnessed the rise of the Nazi Party.

Thompson was one of the first American journalists to recognize the threat posed by fascism. In her columns and broadcasts, she warned that the Nazis were a danger not only to Germany but to the entire world. She also reported on the plight of Jews and other minorities under Nazi rule.

In 1939, Thompson returned to the United States and continued to speak out against fascism. She wrote a syndicated column that was published in over 100 newspapers and gave countless radio broadcasts. She also helped to organize the Fight for Freedom Committee, a group that raised money to support the Allied cause in World War II.

Thompson's work earned her a Pulitzer Prize in 1940. She was also awarded the Medal of Freedom in 1945. In the years after the war, she continued to write and speak out on issues of social justice. She was a strong advocate for women's rights and civil rights.

Dorothy Thompson died in 1961. She was a trailblazing journalist who helped to shape American opinion during a critical period in history. Her work continues to inspire and challenge us today.

Legacy and Impact

Dorothy Thompson's legacy is one of courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to social justice. She was a pioneer for women in journalism and a tireless advocate for democracy and human rights. Her work helped to raise awareness of the dangers of fascism and to mobilize the American people to fight against it.

Thompson's work continues to be relevant today. In a world where fascism and authoritarianism are on the rise, her warnings about the dangers of these ideologies are more important than ever. She is a reminder that we must never take our freedoms for granted and that we must always be vigilant in our defense of democracy.

American Cassandra: The Life of Dorothy Thompson

If you are interested in learning more about Dorothy Thompson and her extraordinary life, I highly recommend reading American Cassandra: The Life of Dorothy Thompson by Peter Kurth. This biography provides a comprehensive and well-written account of Thompson's life and work.

In this book, Kurth draws on extensive research, including Thompson's personal papers, to paint a vivid portrait of a woman who was both brilliant and flawed. He explores Thompson's complex personality and her relationships with her family, friends, and colleagues. He also examines her role in some of the most important events of the 20th century, including World War II and the Cold War.

American Cassandra is a fascinating and inspiring read. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in American history, journalism, or the fight for social justice.

American Cassandra: The Life of Dorothy Thompson

by Peter Kurth

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4940 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	828 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE