While the profession of public relations is only a century old, man has been practicing the art of influencing public attitudes since the dawn of civilization. This book looks at modern America through the lens of public relations, showing how many of the events that have changed the course of our nation's modern history were triggered by campaigns to influence attitudes, opinions, and behaviors. And while the channels may have evolved in the modern era-from radio and newspapers, billboards and magazine ads, to television and the Internet, to Tumblr and Instagram-the underlying power of public relations to shape organizations and issues, and to change human behavior has not. Inside this book you'll find case studies on campaigns from the Women's Movement through Civil Rights to public education on health and safety issues that document the role public relations has played in shaping contemporary American culture and society.

The age of the instant crisis has arrived. Companies, Non-profits and high-profile individuals often seem unable to cope. The ingredients include speed, pervasiveness and huge numbers. Verizon adds a $2 charge, and one hour later 100,000 signatures appear on a Twitter petition. There's a new playing field - social media. And new rules of the game - analysis, action, communication at high speed. Yet the realities of people's reasonable expectations and the basic rules guiding crisis behavior and communication haven't changed. This book examines recent 'Instant Crises,' derives lessons and applies the basics of crisis management to the new environment.