Cable News Network

The Cable News Network (CNN) was the first 24-hour cable news channel in the United States. First started in 1980 by Ted Turner, it is a division of the Turner Broadcasting System, which is owned by AOL Time Warner.

From its origin as a cable-only service, CNN now broadcasts worldwide by satellite, with programs presented from studios in several countries in addition to their headquarters in Atlanta. Some regions receive locally produced opt-outs (under the name "CNN International"), and there are also broadcasts in Spanish, German, Italian, Croatian, Turkish and Gaelic.

History

CNN is owned by media mogul Ted Turner and made its debut in 1980 as the first US 24-hour news network. During its early years it struggled to achieve the success and credibility of older news agencies, such as the BBC. However it achieved a great deal of recognition during its coverage of the first Gulf War during which it was the only news agency reporting during the initial night of the war. These events led to a movie, Live from Baghdad, which portrays the events.

Allegations of Bias

It has been accused by conservative media critics of having a liberal slant to its reporting.

The network has also been accused of having a conservative bias. For example CNN's Paula Zahn show caused controversy after they hosted several guests, one of whom said atheists should "Shut Up."

News Anchors

• Larry King
• Anderson Cooper
• Paula Zahn
• Campbell Brown
• Lou Dobbs

External Links

• CNN official site
• CNN creates blogging policy, encourages employees to engage in sockpuppetry, Simon Owens, Bloggasm, August 2, 2008