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CBS News Radio flashback: Orson Welles' 1938 "War of the Worlds" broadcast

CBS News Radio flashback: Orson Welles' 1938 "War of the Worlds" broadcast

Summary

On October 30, 1938, radio listeners on CBS News Radio heard Orson Welles’ reading of "War of the Worlds," a story about an alien invasion. Many people thought the broadcast was real, which caused panic at the time.

Key Facts

  • The broadcast occurred on October 30, 1938.
  • Orson Welles read the story "War of the Worlds," written by H.G. Wells.
  • The story was presented like a real breaking news report.
  • Many listeners believed an alien invasion was actually happening.
  • This caused widespread confusion and fear among the public.
  • The event has become a famous example of the power of radio and media.
  • CBS News Radio later reflected on the broadcast as a significant historical moment.
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