Which figure is closely associated with the rise of Yellow Journalism?

William Randolph Hearst is closely associated with the rise of Yellow Journalism due to his role in the sensationalist reporting style that defined this period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hearst owned several newspapers, and he encouraged exaggerated and often fabricative stories to attract more readers and increase circulation. His tactics included using dramatic headlines, eye-catching illustrations, and a focus on scandal and sensational events, which contributed significantly to the public's perception of news.

This approach not only shaped the newspaper industry but also had a considerable impact on public opinion and politics, particularly regarding events like the Spanish-American War, where sensationalist reporting influenced American sentiment and actions. Hearst’s aggressive pursuit of readership through sensational stories exemplified the characteristics of Yellow Journalism, marking him as a key figure in its rise.