What's Happening?
The Associated Press commemorated the 150th anniversary of the death of Mark Kellogg, the first journalist to die while working for the organization. Kellogg was killed alongside Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Embedded
with Custer's troops, Kellogg was reporting for The Bismarck Tribune and New York Herald when he was killed. His last dispatch, which was circulated by the AP, expressed his commitment to the campaign. Kellogg's work and his tragic end have been preserved by the State Historical Society of North Dakota, which holds his diary and personal belongings.
Why It's Important?
Kellogg's death highlights the risks journalists face in conflict zones, a reality that continues today. His story underscores the historical role of war correspondents in shaping public understanding of military conflicts. The preservation of his work provides valuable insights into the Battle of Little Bighorn and the broader context of the American Indian Wars. This anniversary serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by journalists in pursuit of truth and the impact of their work on historical narratives.
