Accessing Historical NBC Nightly News Broadcasts: A Comprehensive Guide

Ever wondered if there's any copy of an NBC Nightly News broadcast from September 16, 1973? This article provides a comprehensive guide to accessing such historical broadcasts, emphasizing the resources available and the proper steps to follow.

Where to Find the NBC Nightly News Broadcast

NBC itself possesses the copy of the broadcast from September 16, 1973. If you're looking for a reliable and official source, contact NBC directly to inquire about the availability and pricing of obtaining a copy.

For those seeking a more institutional approach, the Paley Center for Media might have the broadcast in its archive. It's worth visiting in person, as they may have a more extensive collection. However, as a non-member, you might find that the news broadcasts are not searchable online. A search term such as a person's name, like former Soviet scientist Andrei Sakharov, could be helpful in your search.

Historical Context: The Broadcast of September 16, 1973

This particular broadcast features Andrei Sakharov, a renowned Soviet scientist, addressing the United States Congress. Sakharov sought to link a trade bill with the Soviet Union to the U.S.S.R., allowing free emigration, specifically for Jews to leave Russia. At the time, the situation for Jews in the Soviet Union was deeply concerning.

Racism and violence against Jews in the Soviet Union were widespread, and this was a continuation of the Nazi hatred that had inflicted the Holocaust. Joseph Stalin’s policies had already led to the murder of between twenty and sixty million Russian citizens, predominantly Jews, which was part of the broader context of the brutal Soviet regime.

Sakharov's efforts were successful in the short term. The law he advocated for stood until 1979, when President Jimmy Carter signed the Soviet Jewry Act. However, the situation improved only marginally. It was not until President Obama signed the Unity in Action Act in 2004 that normal trade relations were reestablished with Russia.

Contemporary Relevance: Recent Events and Their Impact

The broadcast from 1973 resonates with current events, particularly Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine and the ongoing rhetoric of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin's controversial order to assassinate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a Russian/Ukrainian Jew, has resurrected past hatred and tensions towards Jews.

Moreover, Donald Trump’s presidency saw a resurgence of hate towards various minority groups, including African-Americans, Hispanics, Asian-Americans, and anyone not considered white. These actions have had lasting impacts on society and continue to shape contemporary discourse on human rights and civil liberties.

How to Access the NBC Nightly News Broadcast and Related Resources

For those who are unable or unwilling to contact NBC directly, a transcript of the broadcast would be a valuable resource. You can request this from NBC if it still exists. Additionally, libraries, particularly academic and public libraries, can be a good resource to check for transcripts and other historical documents. Contacting local libraries or paying for a transcript at NBC might be necessary steps to take.

In conclusion, the search for historical NBC Nightly News broadcasts from 1973 requires a multifaceted approach. Whether you turn to NBC, the Paley Center for Media, or local libraries, the goal is to gain access to these important historical records. The context and content of the broadcast remain relevant today, making it a significant piece of historical documentation.