History of Magazines

Joseph Russo

Invention of magazines

• The printing press, which was invented in 1440, created a way for knowledge could be mass produced for the first time in human history. It was used to print newsletters, Bibles etc.

• The earliest known example of modern magazines was invented in 1663, created by German theologian Johann Rist called “Edifying Monthly Discussions.”

• In 1672, the first “periodical of amusement” was published. It contained news, songs, short verses and gossip. It became very popular in France although it had more amusing content rather than intellectual content.

Invention of magazines continued

• In 1731, an Englishman named Edward Cave published a periodical called The Gentleman’s Magazine. His goal was to create a magazine that the general public would be interested in. He was the first publisher to successfully fashion a wide-ranging publication such as essays and poems.

• In 1842, British newsagent Herbert Ingram created the first illustrated magazine. He realised that the illustrations contributed to magazine sales, so he began publishing The Illustrated London News. It was also the first magazine to include photos.

History of Magazines in America

• First published in 1741. They became incredibly popular in America and by the end of the 18th century there were more than 100 magazines in USA.

• Early periodicals were so expensive that only the wealthy could afford them. They were aimed toward the most learned, cultured and sophisticated individuals of the day.

• By the 1830’s less expensive aimed at the general public began to emerge. These magazines focused more on amusement and entertainment.

History of Special Interest Magazines

• America’s magazine market increased in the late 1800’s in large part due to compulsory education and increased literacy. Periodicals were created specifically for lawyers, artists, musicians etc.

• The magazines showcased essays and fiction pieces written by the best writers of the day.