War of the Worlds
Media Factsheet 1) What is the history and narrative behind War of the Worlds? War of the Worlds was initially a novel published in 1898. The text has been frequently interpreted as a commentary on British Imperialism and Victorian fear and prejudice. It tells the story of alien race fleeing from Mars to invade Earth and the ensuing chaos that follows. 2) When was it first broadcast and what is the popular myth regarding the reaction from the audience? It was initially broadcast in 1938 and the audience allegedly believed it was real and that aliens really were attacking Earth. 3) How did the New York Times report the reaction the next day? They reported that "many" had fled their homes hearing about the "gas attacks from Mars". They also reported that there was a "wave of mass hysteria" last night from viewers nationwide. 4) How did author Brad Schwartz describe the the broadcast and its reaction? Brad Schwartz suggests that the hysteria it caused was ...