THE BERLIN MOMENT IN AN AGE OF PERIL: AMERICAN PRESS COVERAGE OF THE 1958 BERLIN CRISIS

Abstract

U.S. press coverage of the 1958 Berlin Crisis through Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev's 1959 visit to the United States reveals the extent to which American newsprint reinforced President Eisenhower's image as he changed his approach to foreign policy. The press helped Eisenhower maintain his reputation of strength and the support of the American public as he abandoned his hardliner platform in favor of peaceful negotiations with the Soviet Union. The structure and language used by journalists and editors involved in Eisenhower's covert propaganda initiative, Operation Candor, placed Americans and Berliners in solidarity and reinforced the implications of a military conflict over Berlin. Moreover, American newsprint laid the groundwork for resolution of the crisis and relief of tension through diplomatic rather than military action. Shifting the tone from aggressive rollback to strength through peace, the media helped Eisenhower transform his foreign policy while maintaining his steadfast reputation. Likewise, American newsprint alternated its depiction of Khrushchev between a belligerent boogey-man and a bluffing buffoon, fostering fear at times and mockery at others. Rather than characterize it as a sign of weakness or submission, the media reported favorably on Eisenhower's invitation to Khrushchev to visit the United States and to talk informally about the German question. The result was a propagandistic picture of Eisenhower as both a cold warrior and a brilliant strategist for peace who called the bluff of the Soviet leader.