Publick Occurrences Both Forreign and Domestick was an ambitious publication founded by Benjamin Harris in Boston, Massachusetts. It appeared as the first newspaper in the Americas, aiming to provide news and information to a population eager for knowledge about both domestic and foreign affairs. Released in September 1690, this groundbreaking paper contained articles on international, national, and local events, including news from England and Europe, as well as commentary on the British government and colonial issues. Harris, who had been previously involved in printing pamphlets, sought to fill a noticeable gap in the dissemination of news in the New World.

Despite its aspirations, the publication faced immediate challenges. The Massachusetts Bay Colony government did not appreciate the critical tone of some articles, particularly those that could be viewed as politically sensitive. Within a few days of its release, authorities suppressed the paper, citing the need for a license to print and concerns over the unfettered spread of information. Thus, Publick Occurrences became a historical footnote, existing only as a single issue.

The impact of this publication, however, was profound. It highlighted the potential for newspapers in colonial America and inspired future publications. While it did not continue, Publick Occurrences set a precedent for the establishment of journalism as a tool for both information and scrutinizing authority, a principle that would come to characterize the evolution of the press in the New World.