Maybe the press in America has always been hated, I can't really say. I can say for certain however that it's only been over the past 60 years that our media has sought solace in the arms of our enemies.
You should read William Safire's most recent book about the press from days gone by. Believe me, the press has always enjoyed a low reputation in America - since the beginning. But...members of the press will then tell you that, if that's so, they must be doing their jobs correctly.