Lou Cannon, Renowned Journalist and Reagan Biographer, Passes Away at 92
Lou Cannon, a veteran journalist and author widely regarded as the nation’s leading authority on President Ronald Reagan, died on Friday in a Santa Barbara hospice at the age of 92. His death was caused by complications from a stroke, according to his son Carl M. Cannon, who spoke to the Washington Post.
Cannon’s extensive career spanned multiple decades, with a significant portion dedicated to covering Reagan’s life and political career. He interviewed Reagan over 50 times and wrote five books about the former president, including “Reagan” (1982) and “President Reagan: The Role of a Lifetime” (1991). Despite his in-depth research and personal interactions with Reagan, Cannon often expressed his struggle to fully understand the enigmatic leader.
Early Life and Career
Cannon was born in New York City and raised in Reno, Nevada, where he attended the University of Nevada in Reno and later San Francisco State College. After serving in the U.S. Army, he began his journalism career as a reporter covering Reagan’s early years as governor of California for the San Jose Mercury News. In 1972, Cannon joined the Washington Post as a political reporter, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished tenure with the publication.
Cannon’s first encounter with Reagan was in 1965, when he was assigned to cover a lunch event for reporters and lobbyists. He was struck by Reagan’s command of the room and his ability to answer questions, dispelling the notion that he was merely an actor reading from a script. This initial impression would be the starting point for a lifelong fascination with Reagan’s personality and politics.
A Lasting Impact
Reagan’s political opponents consistently underestimated him, assuming that the former actor could be easily beaten at the ballot box. However, Cannon recognized Reagan’s determination and toughness, which ultimately propelled him to the presidency. Cannon’s writings and observations of Reagan have been widely regarded as authoritative, providing valuable insights into the life and career of the 40th president.
In addition to his work on Reagan, Cannon authored books on other topics, including the LAPD and the 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles. His diverse range of writings showcases his expertise as a journalist and his ability to tackle complex, thought-provoking subjects.
Cannon is survived by his wife, Mary Shinkwin, and three children. His legacy as a journalist and biographer continues to inspire new generations of writers and historians. For more information on Lou Cannon’s life and work, visit Here
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