History of Visual Technology How did TV become the most popular form of mass communication?

Mass Communication First was printing press in 1400’s, used for books and fliers. Telegraph, invented in 1844, provided fast information. Led to wire services. Photography became popular in the late 1800’s, especially during the Civil War.

Mass Communication First radio newscast was in Radio was very important for FDR’s fireside chats during the Depression & World War II. First television newscast was in 1940, but TV didn’t become popular until late 1940’s and early 1950’s.

Origins of Television First shows were live and in black and white. One advertiser would sponsor a show and could dictate its content. Most shows were game shows, variety shows or news. People trusted completely what they saw on television.

Changes in Programs & Power Public relies on television for: information, entertainment, advertising, instruction, public safety, public forum, cultural norms. First shows were very conservative, showing idealistic white, suburban life. Television networks didn’t want to offend public: no sex, violence or profanity.

Changes in Programs & Power Networks had strict censors and were also censored by the FCC. Competition for ratings led to changes in subject matter. Now we have sweeps weeks and many popular shows contain very controversial subject matter.

Rise & Fall of First 3 TV Networks First television networks began as radio networks. Used the same shows and performers on both media. Originally, networks controlled everything and everybody on television. Rise of cable stations in 1970’s led to networks being far less popular.

The Future is Ours To Make! Visual technology is a creative industry. Change is part of the business!