Journalists have constantly shaped much of history throughout. They report on important things that impact the way our country works. Chapter 17 of Mightier than the Sword describes the different characteristics a journalist must have in order to shape history. This involves the willingness to break from the pack. For example, the first newspaper to go against slavery was criticized heavily, but it still impacted change. Another characteristic one needs is to be willing to put one’s self in harms way, like when William Lloyd Garrison was stoned for being a abolitionist. More characteristics include the willingness to set an agenda and to sacrifice financial gain for public good.

Journalism has impacted history for a very long time. Journalists increasingly push boundaries and state their opinions on public policy, the economy and civil rights. They can start movements and change the way the world works.