Fear and Loathing On the Campaign Trail '72

Hunter S. Thompson (1937-2005) was an American journalist known for his distinctive style, sharp wit, and his role in creating what came to be known as “Gonzo journalism.” Thompson was a significant counterculture figure, and his life and work were characterized by a rebellious spirit and a profound disdain for authority. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on July 18, 1937. His father died when he was 14, leaving his family in financial difficulty. Thompson was a troubled youth, frequently in conflict with authority. His penchant for rebellion led to a stint in the Air Force, where he began writing for a base newspaper. After being honorably discharged, Thompson pursued journalism, working for various publications across the US and South America.

Gonzo Journalism, a term coined by Thompson, refers to a style of reporting that merges the writer’s personal experience with the reporting and often includes elements of satire, exaggeration, and fictionalization. Unlike traditional journalism, which emphasizes objectivity and detachment, Gonzo journalism is highly subjective, and the journalist often becomes a central character. Thompson’s first major success was Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs in 1967.