Famous Investigative Journalists to Know for Honors Journalism

Famous investigative journalists have shaped society by exposing corruption, injustice, and abuse of power. Their relentless pursuit of truth highlights the vital role of journalism in promoting accountability and social change, connecting deeply with the principles of Honors Journalism and Investigative Reporting.

1. Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein

   • Investigative journalists for The Washington Post who uncovered the Watergate scandal.
   • Their reporting led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974.
   • They emphasized the importance of thorough research and reliable sources in journalism.

2. Ida B. Wells

   • A pioneering African American journalist and activist known for her anti-lynching campaigns.
   • She used investigative journalism to expose the injustices faced by Black Americans in the late 19th century.
   • Wells founded the NAACP and was a key figure in the early civil rights movement.

3. Nellie Bly

   • An early investigative journalist known for her undercover work, particularly in mental health institutions.
   • Her exposé "Ten Days in a Mad-House" revealed the mistreatment of patients and led to reforms.
   • Bly also circumnavigated the globe in 72 days, showcasing the potential of women in journalism.

4. Upton Sinclair

   • Author of "The Jungle," which exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.
   • His work led to public outcry and significant reforms in food safety regulations.
   • Sinclair's investigative approach highlighted the intersection of journalism and social reform.

5. Seymour Hersh

   • Investigative journalist known for breaking the My Lai Massacre story during the Vietnam War.
   • His reporting revealed government cover-ups and the need for accountability in military actions.
   • Hersh has received numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize, for his impactful journalism.

6. Ida Tarbell

   • A leading muckraker who investigated the monopolistic practices of Standard Oil.
   • Her work led to public awareness and the eventual breakup of the company.
   • Tarbell's methodical research set a standard for investigative reporting.

7. Woodward and Bernstein

   • Their collaboration on the Watergate scandal exemplified teamwork in investigative journalism.
   • They utilized anonymous sources, including "Deep Throat," to gather critical information.
   • Their work is a case study in the power of journalism to influence politics and society.

8. Veronica Guerin

   • An Irish journalist who investigated drug trafficking and organized crime in Dublin.
   • Guerin's fearless reporting ultimately led to her assassination in 1996.
   • Her legacy highlights the risks faced by journalists in pursuit of truth.

9. Günter Wallraff

   • A German journalist known for his undercover investigations, including posing as a Turkish worker.
   • His book "Lowest of the Low" exposed exploitation and discrimination in the labor market.
   • Wallraff's work raises ethical questions about the methods used in investigative journalism.

10. Anna Politkovskaya

    • A Russian journalist known for her critical reporting on the Chechen War and human rights abuses.
    • Politkovskaya faced threats and ultimately was assassinated in 2006 for her work.
    • Her legacy emphasizes the dangers faced by journalists in authoritarian regimes.

11. David Halberstam

    • A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist known for his coverage of the Vietnam War.
    • His book "The Best and the Brightest" critiques U.S. political decisions during the war.
    • Halberstam's work illustrates the role of journalism in shaping public understanding of complex issues.

12. Ronan Farrow

    • An investigative journalist who exposed sexual assault allegations against powerful figures in Hollywood.
    • His reporting for The New Yorker contributed to the #MeToo movement.
    • Farrow's work emphasizes the importance of investigative journalism in holding the powerful accountable.

13. Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey

    • Journalists for The New York Times who reported on sexual harassment allegations against Harvey Weinstein.
    • Their investigation sparked a global conversation about sexual misconduct and workplace culture.
    • Kantor and Twohey's work exemplifies the impact of investigative journalism on social change.

14. Gary Webb

    • An investigative journalist known for his "Dark Alliance" series linking the CIA to drug trafficking.
    • Webb faced significant backlash and controversy for his claims, highlighting the challenges of investigative reporting.
    • His work raised important questions about government accountability and media ethics.

15. Jane Mayer

    • A journalist for The New Yorker known for her investigative work on political corruption and the War on Terror.
    • Mayer's book "Dark Money" explores the influence of wealthy donors on American politics.
    • Her reporting underscores the critical role of investigative journalism in uncovering hidden power dynamics.