In "The Record of the Paper," Howard Friel conducts a searing examination of the New York Times' reportage on American foreign policy, laying bare the complicity of the United States' newspaper of record in the misrepresentation of facts concerning wars from Vietnam to Iraq. Through rigorous research, Friel uncovers a pattern of distortion and omission by the Times, particularly its failure to interrogate the legal and moral grounds of U.S. military interventions. This critique not only indicts the Times for its role in misleading the public but also challenges the broader implications of media complicity in undermining both international law and constitutional democracy within the United States. Friel's analysis extends beyond mere critique, proposing a paradigm shift towards “strict scrutiny” in journalistic practices. By advocating for a journalistic ethos that prioritizes the principles of the UN Charter and the US Constitution, "The Record of the Paper" not only exposes the failures of past reportage but also offers a visionary path forward. This work is a crucial read for those concerned with the ethics of journalism, the integrity of public discourse, and the pursuit of truth in an era of contested realities. It stands as a testament to the power of the press in shaping public perception and policy, urging a recommitment to the highest standards of accountability and transparency.