Reflection 04: Did You See That?—When History Unfolds on Television

In 1981, 750 million worldwide watched the Royal Wedding

There are moments in which television transforms itself from a form of entertainment into a window to world events. During these times, history plays itself out in real time and, thanks to television, we are afforded a front row seat. Whether what we see inspires us, or terrifies us, historical events on television often captivate us. For this reflection, watch excerpts from two of the following historical events. As you watch, consider the unique perspectives that television provides. What do we gain by watching history unfold on TV? And what historical event have you see played out on television?

Write about two of the following events:

• The Launch of Sputnik 1 (1957)
• The Assassination of President Kennedy (1963)
• The Assassination of Dr. King (1968)
• The Apollo 11 Moon Landing (1968)
• The Apollo 13 Splashdown (1970)
• The Resignation of President Nixon (1974)
• The "Miracle on Ice" (1980)
• The Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana (1981)
• The Live-Aid Concerts in Philadelphia and London (1985)
• The Space Shuttle Challenger Explosion (1986)
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall (1989)
• The OJ Simpson Murder Trial (1994 - 1995)
• The Funeral of Princess Diana (1997)
• The Attacks of September 11th (2001)
• The Inauguration of President Obama (2009)
• The Memorial of Michael Jackson (2009)
• The Japanese Earthquake and Tsunamis (2011)
• The Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton (2011)

Required:

• MLA Style
• Must be exactly two-full pages in length
• A Works Cited page

Due: Tu 3.13 (Sec. 05) / Fr 3.16 (Sec. 49)