During these difficult economic times sensationalism has become more prevalent in the media. Stories of sex scandals and child murders have invaded our television screens and the Internet, as well as the front pages of our newspapers. The media bias of sensationalism has been used as a kind of escapism for readers. While it may seem like sensationalism is just starting to make waves, it has been around for decades. Sensationalism has influenced viewers and contributed to media bias since the days of the penny press. The long history of sensationalism has been turbulent, self-serving, and influential on today's reporting practices. By influencing reader sensationalism, media bias has and will continue to influence media reporting for years to come. Sensationalism is described as “the use of shocking material: the practice of emphasizing the most obscene, shocking, and emotional aspects of something under discussion or investigation, especially by the media” (“Sensationalism,” 2009). This tactic has been used for centuries. Whether it is stories about a monster that will devour evil children, or the dangerous communist ways, sensationalism is everywhere. Sensationalism began during the era of Pulitzer and Hearst newspapers media and would impact the lives of many. Joseph Pulitzer, who helped bring sensationalism to the forefront, was born to humble beginnings. Born on April 10, 1847, Pulitzer came to America in 1867 without money and was recruited into the. Union Army (Morris, 2010). After serving in the war, Pulitzer began his journalism career in a foreign language newspaper in St. Louis ... at the center of the newspaper... those who have to report on the side of their financiers. Newspapers and nightly news tend not to have the bipartisan qualities they claim to have. Newspapers and nightly news have become a business. They no longer follow the public service values ​​they once supported (Sensationalism, 2005). Instead of being the fourth branch of government, they are just like any other business that makes money. It is no longer a competition to make the truth known; it's more of a race for dollars and control. Sensationalism is fueled solely by money and popularity. If a news outlet gains great popularity, it can influence votes and influence voters. Sensationalism has already influenced many political situations. Sensationalism has proven to spread like a virus. If sensationalism goes unchecked, there is no way the news media can defend the people.