The Yellow Kids is a winner
Writing of press baron James Gordon Bennett, author Joyce Milton tells the following tale:
"Individuals who became the targets of Bennett's slashing wit sometimes resorted to physical retaliation. In 1836, James Watson Webb, owner of the rival 'Courier & Enquirer,' became so outraged over a 'Herald' story accusing him of profiting from the stocks he touted in his editorial columns that he attacked Bennett on the street. Striking Bennett from behind with his cane and knocking him to the ground, Webb then held his victim's jaws open and spat down his throat. Bennett, unimpressed, resumed his attacks on Webb as soon as he was well enough to return to the office. In 1850, John Graham, a defeated candidate for district attorney whose election the 'Herald' had opposed, accosted Bennett on Broadway, and while Mrs. Bennett looked on, he and his two brothers flailed away at the publisher with horsewhips. In 1852, a black-powder bomb marked "For Mr. Bennett only" was delivered to the 'Herald's' offices. Henrietta Bennett eventually became so unnerved by these episodes that she moved to France, taking her children with her."
Those who want to see just how wild and woolly journalism used to get should read Ms. Milton's book. Her tale of Bennett is typical. 'The Yellow Kids' is chock full of just such stuff as that and all of it is true. Impeccably sourced and documented, competently written, fun to read, 'The Yellow Kids' is highly recommended. Great stuff!