Date of Birth: March 22, 1924
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Date of Death: April 19, 2013
Biography
Allen Harold “Al” Neuharth was an influential American businessman and columnist, best known for founding USA Today, the nation’s biggest-selling newspaper. Born on March 22, 1924, in Eureka, South Dakota, Neuharth’s journey to becoming a media mogul was marked by determination, innovation, and a keen sense of the evolving landscape of journalism. After serving in World War II, Neuharth attended the University of South Dakota, where he developed a deep interest in journalism. His career began with small-town newspapers, eventually leading him to the Gannett Company, where he rose to prominence. In 1982, he launched USA Today, revolutionizing the industry with its colorful design, concise news, and focus on graphics. Neuharth’s vision transformed the newspaper into a national success. He also founded the Freedom Forum, dedicated to free press and free speech. Neuharth passed away on April 19, 2013, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence modern journalism.
5 Interesting Facts about Allen Neuharth
1. Allen Neuharth served in the U.S. Army during World War II and received a Bronze Star.
2. He founded the modern newspaper USA Today in 1982, which became the largest-circulating newspaper in the United States.
3. Neuharth wrote an autobiography titled “Confessions of an S.O.B.” in 1989.
4. He established the Freedom Forum, an organization dedicated to free press and free speech.
5. Allen Neuharth was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 1984.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Allen Neuharth
1. “I quit being afraid when my first venture failed and the sky didn’t fall down.”
2. “The difference between a mountain and a molehill is your perspective.”
3. “We do not live in a totalitarian state. But if we act like we do, then we will.”
4. “The biggest risk is not taking any risk.”
5. “Journalism is the first rough draft of history.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Allen Neuharth’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million.
Children
Allen Neuharth had three children: Jan Neuharth, Dan Neuharth, and Mike Neuharth.
Relevant Links
1. [Allen Neuharth Biography on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Allen-H-Neuharth
3. [Freedom Forum](https://www.freedomforum.org/
5. [South Dakota Hall of Fame](https://sdhalloffame.blog/allen-neuharth-1984-inductee/
