Here's why she was famous:
* Pioneer in the Field: Thomas broke barriers as one of the first female White House correspondents, joining the White House press corps in 1960. She was the first woman to become the president of the White House Correspondents' Association.
* Long-Standing Presence: She covered 9 presidents, from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama, earning her the title "Dean of the White House Press Corps."
* Direct and Questioning Style: Thomas was known for her direct and sometimes confrontational questioning style, holding presidents accountable and challenging their policies. She was respected for her ability to ask tough, incisive questions.
* Prolific Writer: She wrote for UPI (United Press International) for over 50 years, covering major historical events like the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal.
* Advocate for Journalism: Throughout her career, she was a strong advocate for press freedom and the importance of a free and independent media.
However, Thomas also faced criticism later in her career for controversial remarks, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These statements led to a public backlash and ultimately to her retirement from UPI in 2010.
Despite the controversy, Helen Thomas's legacy remains significant. She is remembered as a pioneer for women in journalism, a fierce advocate for press freedom, and a formidable figure who shaped the landscape of White House coverage.