Ninety years young

In November 1998 the veteran broadcaster reached another milestone in a long and distinguished journalistic career. BBC News Online has compiled this special tribute to one of the world's best loved broadcasters.

Alistair Cooke's collection of weekly talks is kept here.

How it all began
Letter from America is more than 50 years old. Alistair Cooke describes 'in his own words' some of the secrets of his trade.


Audiovisual tribute to Alistair Cooke at ninety

56k modems  28k modems  14k modems

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What makes him tick
From conception to the accumulation of several million listeners and beyond. An assessment of 'Letter from America' by biographer Nick Clarke of BBC Radio 4.

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Classic letter 1968
A personal description of feelings and muddled sensations after witnessing Senator Robert Kennedy's assassination.


 Letter From America June 9th 1968

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Alastair Cooke Q&A
How much do you know about the man and his life? Test your knowledge with this quiz devoted to Alistair Cooke.

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Your birthday messages
Tributes from many countries throughout the world have been plentiful. A selection of which is available for you to read.