National Public Radio (NPR)

National Public Radio emerged in the last quarter of the 20th century as an important outlet for political news in the United States, eventually reaching a substantial audience of voters with desirable demographics. Corporate sponsorship expanded, and the network acquired a reputation for covering varied political topics in depth.

Established as an alternative medium, NPR began airing a daily news program in 1971. All Things Considered, in its first decade, emphasized long features and documentaries analyzing social issues, following the network philosophy of giving voice to common people and preparing listeners for democratic participation. The program stressed legal and political affairs, satisfying listeners' needs to stay current and fulfill their civic duties. NPR remained marginal to public debate of the 1970s, but its news program attracted ...