Anne Elizabeth Murphy
Drop-in Assignment #5

HOLLYWOOD, POLITICS & MONEY

Introduction:

    In 1941, America was still in the era of The Great Depression and times were not always easy.  People looked at the wealthy and at Hollywood for an escape from reality.  While times were hard for many people, some still had a great deal of wealth.  There were many power struggles, jealousy and scandals amongst those trying to tell their side of the story.  An example of such is the battle between William Randolph Hearst and a movie made by Orson Welles. Hearst was born to a rich family and made a name for himself in journalism and also changed what was considered to be journalism.  Hearst encouraged the use of dramatic exaggerations to sell numerous newspapers and was known for publishing fake stories.  His family is still powerful in today's publishing world.  Orson Welles was a up and coming Hollywood star--a writer, a director and an actor.  He wanted to be destined for greatness, at any cost, and was very self confident.   There is always more that what is in print or on the screen and it is important to remember that when researching history.  Look at both sides before making a decision.  

Assignment:

    The link below will take you to the PBS website and a summary of the power struggle between Hearst and Welles.  Read the summary and then answer the following questions:

1. The influence of Hearst is still seen in modern journalism.  Using examples from the text and your own knowledge support this statement.

2.  William Randolph Hearst is quoted for saying: 
"I thought of it, but I decided against it. Because you can crush a man with journalism, and you can't with motion pictures."
Do you think is argument is valid? Why or why not? Support your answer.

3.  Who do you think won the battle between Welles and Hearst?  Hearst who "squashed" the film? Or Welles who is credited today for creating such a masterpiece?