The founder and benefactor of the McCormick Foundation, Robert R. McCormick, was a firm and passionate
advocate of journalism and press freedom. As a result, journalism is one of the major priorities of the McCormick Foundation.
McCormick spoke widely on the role of the press in a democratic society, had quotes declaring the importance of
press freedom inscribed in marble throughout the lobby of the Tribune Tower and even bankrolled the landmark Near
v. Minnesota case that established that prior restraint of the press by the government violates the First Amendment.
McCormick was the long-time owner, editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune until his death in 1955.
