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2000 BCE
Criers in Babylon
The first recorded use of advertising criers in Babylon. They would publicly announce messages in crowded places. Key Element: Word-of-mouth and public proclamations were the earliest forms of advertising. -
1550 BCE
Use of Fire by the Phoenicians
The Phoenicians used fire for signaling, which can be seen as a form of advertising. Key Element: Visual signals were used to communicate and advertise goods. -
1200 BCE
Papyri in Ancient Egypt
The first known advertising text, "Shem", was found in ancient Egypt on papyrus. Key Element: Papyrus was used to make sales messages and wall posters. -
Period: 500 BCE to 400 BCE
Kerux, Axon, Kyrbo in Classical Greece
These terms referred to heralds, criers, and advertisers in ancient Greece. Key Element: Public criers were used for commercial advertising. -
100
Praeco, Album, Graffiti, Signa in Rome
Advertising methods in ancient Rome included criers, wall posters, graffiti, and signs. Key Element: Announcement boards, graffiti, and public criers were used for advertisements. -
220
Woodblock Painting in China
The first use of woodblock painting for advertising on textiles and paper. Key Element: Woodblock printing was used on textiles and paper to advertise products. -
Period: 500 to 1300
Medieval Advertising
During the medieval period, newsmen and peddlers promoted products while traveling, charlatans used showmanship to sell remedies, and public criers announced news and ads in public spaces. Key Element: Advertising in the medieval period involved direct communication and persuasion, using newsmen, peddlers, charlatans, and public criers as mediums to reach and influence the public. -
868
Printing of the Diamond Sutra
The Diamond Sutra is known as the first printed book, a significant milestone for the distribution of information. Key Element: Printing technology was advanced, paving the way for mass communication. -
1300
Use of Wooden/Metal Signs by Guilds and Craftsmen
The use of signs became popular as a way for craftsmen to advertise their goods. Key Element: Signs became a common way to advertise a trade. -
1400
Use of Woodcut (Xylography)
Woodcutting, also known as Xylography, was used as a printmaking and text illustration technique, including for advertising. Key Element: Woodcut prints became a common method of print advertising. -
1447
Reinvention of the Printing Press
Johannes Gutenberg reinvented letterpress printing, revolutionizing the dissemination of information. The printing press had originally been invented eight centuries earlier by the Chinese, but the Chinese model that Marco Polo brought to Europe failed to catch on with the Europeans. Key Element: The printing press revolutionized advertising by making it possible to reach large audiences. -
First weekly Newspaper in France - La Gazette
It was first published in 1631 by Théophraste Renaudot, who introduced classified ads to France through this newspaper. He organized the first known public auction for used goods, and he published these "advertisements" in his paper. This represented an early instance of paid advertising in a printed medium.
Key Element: This novel idea of paid classified ads helped establish the economic model of newspapers selling advertising space, which remains fundamental to the industry today. -
Period: to
First Industrial Revolution
The First Industrial Revolution marked the transition from hand production methods to machines, including the growth of the factory system. Key Element: Mass production led to the need for mass marketing. -
First Full-Page Newspaper Ad in the US
The first full-page advertisement occupies the final page of the November 22, 1766, issue of the Providence Gazette, showcasing the increased importance of advertising in media. Key Element: The publication of the first full-page ad in a newspaper signified the growing recognition of advertising's potential to reach large audiences and its evolving role in supporting the media industry. -
Frist Advertising Agency in the World
The first agencies date back as far as 1786 when William Taylor opened his office in London, today acknowledged as the first advertising agency in history. Key Element: The professionalization of advertising services, laying the groundwork for a structured advertising industry and creating a model for future advertising agencies. -
Lithography is invented
This cost-effective and less labor-intensive printing method also allowed for larger ad runs, promoting the growth of mass advertising in the 19th and 20th centuries. Key Element: Revolutionized advertising by enabling the incorporation of vibrant and detailed images into ads, enhancing their appeal, and allowing for cost-effective mass production, which broadened the reach and accessibility of advertising. -
Emergence of Advertising Agencies in the United States
Volney B. Palmer opened the first advertising agency in Philadelphia, USA. Key Element: The opening of the first advertising agency by Volney B. Palmer in Philadelphia, USA, marked the beginning of professional advertising services, setting the foundation for the expansion and systematization of the advertising industry. -
Period: to
Spending on Patent Medicines grew form $3.5 to §75 million
Many patent medicines contained large amounts of alcohol, cocaine or dangerous narcotics (opium, morphine and heroin); many Americans became addicted. Key Element: The dramatic increase in patent medicines from 1850 to 1855 marked the birth of mass advertising and consumer culture, as manufacturers used innovative and aggressive advertising strategies to reach a growing consumer market. -
Period: to
The Birth of Advertising
A time of significant change and expansion in advertising practice. It coincided with the Industrial Revolution, when mass production increased the availability of goods and the development of transportation systems made it possible to reach a wider audience.
Key element: Advertising established itself as a profession, and advertising techniques evolved to attract the public's attention and persuade them to buy products, laying the foundation for modern advertising practice. -
Establishment of N.W. Ayer & Son
N.W. Ayer & Son was founded, becoming the first full-service advertising agency in the U.S. Key Element: The birth of full-service advertising agencies. -
Period: to
Second Industrial Revolution
The Second Industrial Revolution, also known as the Technological Revolution, was characterized by rapid industrial development, especially in steel, electric power, and chemical industries. It had profound effects on advertising, as products could be mass-produced and needed mass marketing. Key Element: Technological advancements led to growth in print advertising. -
Period: to
The Consolidation Of Advertising
With the advent of new technologies and increased urbanization, advertising began to move from a local, small-scale practice to a major industry with national reach. Key Element: The transition of advertising from a local endeavor to a national industry, powered by technological advancements and urbanization, setting the stage for the modern, professional advertising sector. -
Establishment of Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola was invented by pharmacist John Stith Pemberton in Atlanta, Georgia. It has since become one of the most recognized brands globally. Key Element: The importance of a strong and recognizable brand image was realized. Coca-Cola's advertising focused on creating a universally appealing image and slogan. -
Period: to
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau was an international style of art, architecture, and applied art, which greatly influenced visual advertising. Key figures include Alphonse Mucha and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Key Element: Artistic styles began to heavily influence advertising aesthetics. -
Establishment of Ford
Founded by Henry Ford, the Ford Motor Company revolutionized the automotive industry and became one of the most significant car brands worldwide. Key Element: Ford's advertising heavily promoted the idea of cars as a necessity for modern life, focusing on the mass market. -
Establishment of IBM (as CTR)
International Business Machines (IBM), initially founded as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR), has been a leading technology and consulting company. Key Element: IBM's advertising emphasized its technological innovations and superiority, targeting business customers. -
Period: to
Expansion Of Advertising
Marked significant expansion and transformation in the advertising industry, influenced by social, economic, and technological changes. Key Element: The expansion of advertising from 1920-1945 demonstrated the adaptability and resilience of the industry, embracing new mediums like radio and evolving strategies to respond to social, economic, and technological shifts. -
Period: to
Art Deco
Art Déco, a popular visual arts design style, had a significant influence on advertising aesthetics. Key Element: New aesthetic to advertising, characterized by bold geometric designs, luxurious materials, and a modern, streamlined look, influencing the visual appeal and effectiveness of advertisements. -
Birth of Radio Advertising
The first paid radio commercial aired on WEAF in New York City. Key Element: New auditory medium for advertisers, revolutionizing the industry by allowing them to reach consumers directly in their homes and adding a new dimension to advertising messages. -
Scientific Advertising (Book)
Promoted by Claude C. Hopkins in his 1923 book, applies systematic testing, measurement, and analysis to make advertising more effective. Involves thorough market research, testing ads on small audiences, careful tracking of results, and fact-based appeal, marking a shift from subjective, hyperbolic advertising claims. Key Element: It revolutionized the industry by emphasizing data-driven strategies, systematic testing, and fact-based appeals, making advertising more effective and reliable. -
Establishment of McDonald's
McDonald's was founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald. It has since become one of the most globally recognized fast-food chains. Key Element: McDonald's created one of the most recognizable logos and emphasized speed, convenience, and family-friendly values in its advertising. -
Advent of Television Advertising
The first legal television commercial in the U.S. aired before a baseball game on July 1, 1941, for Bulova watches. Key Element: A significant milestone, introducing a visual and auditory medium that allowed advertisers to deliver more immersive and compelling messages, significantly expanding their reach and impact. -
Period: to
Creative Revolution of Advertising
The Creative Revolution was a paradigm shift in advertising that emphasized creativity and concept. Bill Bernbach, the co-founder of the Doyle Dane Bernbach (DDB) agency, was a key figure in this movement. Key Element: Creativity and concept became key drivers in advertising. -
De Beers "A Diamond is Forever" Campaign
N.W. Ayer & Son created the ""A Diamond is Forever"" campaign for De Beers, which became one of the most iconic advertising slogans of the 20th century. Key Element: The rise of iconic advertising slogans that deeply influence consumer behavior. -
Establishment of Ogilvy & Mather
David Ogilvy founded Ogilvy & Mather, which would become one of the world's largest advertising agencies. Key Element: Agencies began to focus on brand image and unique selling propositions. -
First Infomercial
The first infomercial was aired, marking a new way of direct advertising to consumers. Key Element: A new approach in advertising, combining information and sales pitches in long-form content, allowing for deeper engagement with consumers and directly influencing their purchasing decisions. -
Emergence of Political Advertising
In the 1952 presidential election, Rosser Reeves revolutionized political advertising by using television "spot" ads, shifting away from the traditional method of broadcasting long speeches. This strategy distinguished Eisenhower's campaign, pioneering the use of short, focused ads, with the series "Eisenhower Answers America".
Key Element: The use of television "spot" ads as a strategy in political campaigns was initiated, changing the landscape of political advertising. -
Introduction of Color Television Advertising
The advent of color television brought more dynamic and appealing commercials. Key Element: Added a new level of visual appeal and realism to advertisements, enhancing their ability to attract attention and evoke emotional responses from viewers. -
"Think Small" Volkswagen Campaign
Created by the Doyle Dane Bernbach (DDB) agency, the "Think Small" campaign for Volkswagen became one of the most influential advertising campaigns. Key Element: Creative advertising that went against the grain could be highly effective. -
Establishment of Nike (as Blue Ribbon Sports)
Nike, Inc., initially founded as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, has become one of the world's largest suppliers of athletic shoes and apparel. Key Element: Nike's advertising was centered around motivational messages, sports culture, and endorsements from athletes. -
Establishment of Saatchi & Saatchi
Charles and Maurice Saatchi founded Saatchi & Saatchi, which became one of the most globally recognized creative advertising agencies. Key Element: Creativity and big ideas became the center of successful advertising campaigns. -
Establishment of Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. It has become one of the most significant companies in the software industry and personal computing. Key Element: Microsoft used advertising to demonstrate the practical applications of its software for both businesses and individuals. -
Establishment of Apple
Apple Inc. was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. It has since become one of the leading brands in technology, known for its innovation. Key Element: Apple's advertising emphasized innovation, design, and the idea of challenging the status quo. -
First Email Spam Message
The first email spam message was sent, marking a new era of digital advertising (though often unwanted). Key Element: Marked the beginning of digital advertising, showing the potential (albeit controversial) of using new technology to reach consumers directly and instantaneously. -
Establishment of Wieden+Kennedy
Dan Wieden and David Kennedy founded Wieden+Kennedy, which has been responsible for many iconic campaigns, especially for Nike. Key Element: The emergence of agencies focusing on strong brand narratives. -
Apple's "1984" Super Bowl Ad
Apple's "1984" ad, created by agency Chiat/Day, aired during the Super Bowl and has been widely regarded as one of the most influential TV commercials. Key Element: Television became a dominant medium for groundbreaking and influential ads. -
Nike's "Just Do It" Campaign
Wieden+Kennedy created the "Just Do It" campaign for Nike, which became one of the most successful and recognized slogans in advertising history. Key Element: The rise of motivational and aspirational messaging in branding. -
Establishment of Amazon
Amazon was founded by Jeff Bezos. It started as an online marketplace for books but expanded to a wide variety of products and services, becoming one of the world's most valuable companies. Key Element: Amazon's advertising emphasized selection, convenience, and customer service. -
Pop-Up Ads Appear on the Internet
The first pop-up ads appeared on the internet, creating a new format for digital advertising. Key Element: A new, albeit intrusive, method of digital advertising, demonstrating the evolving strategies of advertisers in the online space to capture viewer attention. -
Establishment of Google
Google was founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while they were Ph.D. students at Stanford University. It has since become the most dominant search engine and one of the leading tech companies globally. Key Element: Google's minimal advertising was a testament to its focus on product quality, relying primarily on word-of-mouth and its unrivaled search engine performance. -
Google AdWords Launch
Google launched AdWords (now Google Ads), revolutionizing online advertising with targeted search ads. Key Element: Revolutionized online advertising by introducing targeted search ads, offering businesses a more efficient way to reach potential customers based on their online behavior and search terms. -
Facebook Ads Launch
Facebook launched its advertising platform, enabling targeted ads based on user data and interests. Key Element: A significant shift in digital advertising, enabling highly targeted ads based on user data and interests, and opening new possibilities for personalized marketing. -
Instagram Ads Launch
Instagram launched its advertising platform, further expanding social media advertising. Key Element: Expanded the realm of social media advertising, offering brands a new visual platform to engage with consumers and capitalize on user-generated content.