William randolph hearst biography summary organizers

(1863-1951)

Who Was William Randolph Hearst?

William Randolph Hearst used his wealth and privilege to build a massive media empire. A founder of "yellow journalism," he was praised for his success and vilified by his enemies.

At one point, he considered running for the U.S. presidency. The Great Depression took a toll on Hearst's company and his influence gradually waned, though his company survived.

Early Life and Career

William Randolph Hearst dominated journalism for nearly a half century.

Born in San Francisco, California, on April 29, 1863, to George Hearst and Phoebe Apperson Hearst, young William was taught in private schools and on tours of Europe.

William randolph hearst family tree

He attended Harvard College, where he served as an editor for the Harvard Lampoon before being expelled for misconduct.

While at Harvard, Hearst was inspired by the New York World newspaper and its crusading publisher, Joseph Pulitzer.

Hearst's father, a California Gold Rush multimi