Journalism as the First Draft of History

Posted June 19, 2022

In May 2022, Mark Collin Reid, Editor-in-Chief of Canada’s History, and special guest Peter Mansbridge, former chief correspondent and anchor for CBC News discussed journalism as the “first draft” of history and Peter’s new memoir, Off the Record.

This recording was made at a special virtual event for supporters of the Canada’s History Editor’s Circle. Three lucky attendees were randomly selected to win a copy of Off the Record, courtesy of Simon & Schuster.

Past presentations from the Editor's Circle

The Future of the Crown in Canada

The death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, was the end of an era. Canada’s History spoke recently to historians about the Queen’s immense legacy — and the Crown’s uncertain future in Canada.

Why History is Important for Understanding the Present

In the social-media age, misinformation abounds. Context can often be found in history, however, not all histories are created equal. The threat of malevolent actors twisting histories to further agendas is very real. That’s why historian Margaret MacMillan says it’s crucial to think critically about the past.

Join the Editor’s Circle

Accelerate the pace and spread of Canada’s history storytelling and empower Canadians to build connections among diverse communities through their shared past.

Learn more

An annual giving program, the Editor’s Circle was established in 2020 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Canada’s History magazine (founded in 1920 as The Beaver magazine). Integral to our editorial success, donors’ contributions empower us to share more diverse stories of Canada’s past. Learn more

Themes associated with this article

Related to Politics & Law

Ties of Kinship

The Treaty of Niagara is seen by some as marking the true founding of Canada.

Article

Treaties and the Treaty Relationship

Everyone benefits when there is a greater understanding and appreciation of Treaties and the Treaty relationship. This special issue is part of a greater conversation to ensure that our collective history is truly inclusive.

Article

Spying Goes to College

For the RCMP after the war, communists were the subversives. But when dissent flowered in the 1960s, the Mounties were flummoxed.

Article

A War on Two Fronts

In the Great War, the Canadian state found itself fighting two fronts. And the historical irony is striking: while thousands of working-class men and women were marched off to Europe, ostensibly to defend the rights and freedoms of democracy against tyranny, such highly prized ideals were routinely—and often severely—violated at home.

Article