The War of the Worlds (radio broadcast)

The War of the Worlds radio broadcast was a dramatized adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel, aired on October 30, 1938, by Orson Welles and his Mercury Theatre. It presented a fictional news report about a Martian invasion, which, due to realistic tone and lack of initial disclaimer, caused many listeners to believe it was real. The broadcast highlighted the power of radio as a medium and sparked widespread panic, illustrating how easily people can be deceived by convincing, immersive storytelling. It remains a significant event in media history, showcasing the impact of mass communication and the importance of media literacy.