The era and development of journalism

While writing on my essay, I did some research on the creation and development of journalism. In the university's library, I found the informative article The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science from George W. Ochs.

In fact, the author's career as a journalist began as a reporter for the Daily Times, of which he became the general manager in 1896. Four years later, he got asked by The New York Times to make a daily edition about the Paris Exposition. For his considerable work, Ochs was honoured with the cross of the Legion of Honour by the President of the French Republic. Also worth mentioning is his work at The Philadelphia Times that later merged with the Public Ledger.

In his article, he explains that the era and growth of journalism began in the 1850's. The spreading of information was only possible through telegraphs and the railroads. Anyway, people at that time weren't that interested in press. In the early half of the 19^th century, so called monthlies and weeklies appeared and covered personal opinions and political topics.

With the introduction of newspaper printing, current information got more accessible but still costed a lot of money. The cost of paper amounted 25 to 35 cents per pound.

The implementation of the one-cent newspaper presented the revolution of journalism. The combination of a larger distribution and the technical progress (e.g. the development of the rotary press, the typesetting machine) enlarged the readership and stimulated them to actively read about topicality.

Nowadays, a vast range of newspapers offers a wealth of information to the public. Next to this, online magazines and social media constitutes a news platform for the spread of current issues, worldwide incidents and events, as well as the opportunity for discussion.