James Gordon Bennett, Sr. founded the New York Herald in 1835, marking a significant turning point in American journalism. The paper initially emerged as a response to the increasing demand for timely and reliable news. Offering a mix of local, national, and international stories, Bennett aimed to attract a diverse readership that craved information beyond mere political discourse. He introduced innovations such as the modern editorial format and a focus on sensational storytelling, which captured the attention of the general public. The first issue set an ambitious precedent for reporting, prioritizing immediacy and relevance that few newspapers at the time had embraced.

With the Herald, Bennett showcased a keen ability to adapt to the rapidly changing media landscape of 19th-century America. While many contemporary publications were either politically biased or read by the elite, the New York Herald catered to the everyday reader, thus democratizing news consumption. The Herald's compelling reporting and investigative journalism led to impressive growth in readership, establishing it as one of the leading newspapers in the country.

Bennett’s vision didn’t merely stop at newspaper publishing; he was also instrumental in highlighting important social issues through his reporting. The Herald was known for covering topics like crime, social injustices, and human interest stories, echoing the voices of the common people. This was significant in shaping public discourse and influencing other publications to adopt similar editorial strategies, thereby revolutionizing the industry. Bennett’s approach contributed to creating a vibrant marketplace of ideas, stimulating public debate and civic engagement among New Yorkers.