Radio History 20's +

Advances

Jan 1, 1922

Technological advances allow radio to appear. Most radio was entertainment-oriented, limited coverage on political events, sports,

Radio History 20's - 70's

Period: Jan 1, 1922 to Jan 1, 1970

CBS

Jan 1, 1927

The major corporation, Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) is formed.

News Casts

Apr 3, 1928

Ten minute "NewsCasts" brought to you by TimeMagazine are broadcasted on many stations.

Discussions

Jul 5, 1931

"University of Chicago Roundtable" broadcasted by NBC allowed scholars to engage in intellectuals discussions on air.

Statistic

Mar 1, 1933

Two-thrids of American houses at least own one radio.

Fireside Chats

Jun 5, 1933

President Roosevelt addresses the nation via radio weekly on the updated status of the country and WWII aka Fireside Chats.

Journalism

Apr 3, 1939

Radio "journalism" creates a name for itself as it covers the daily events of WWII. 1939-1945.

Celebs

Apr 3, 1945

A NY DJ (Barry Gray) discovers interviewing celebs on the air gets higher ratings than playing music alone.

Early 60's

Apr 3, 1960

"All Talk" radio programs gain popularity.

NPR

Apr 3, 1970

National Public Radio, a privtate, non-commercial network devoted to news, information, and "infotainment" founded. Programs are aired on local public radio stations nationwide.