History of Visual Technology

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

Mass CommunicationFirst 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 CommunicationFirst radio newscast was in 1920.

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!