Historical Events tagged with "communication"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Transportation & Infrastructure

USS Macon Delivers Mail to USS Houston

July 19th, 1934 90 years ago

The rigid airship USS Macon successfully delivered mail to the USS Houston near Clipperton Island, showcasing its capabilities in maritime communication. This delivery included correspondence for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, highlighting the potential of airships in tracking and connecting naval vessels at sea. The operation demonstrated innovative use of technology in naval logistics at a time of increasing maritime interests.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Federal Communications Commission Established

June 19th, 1934 90 years ago

The Communications Act of 1934 created the FCC to regulate all communications aspects in the United States. This major legislation marked a significant shift in how communications were overseen in the nation, establishing a federal authority intended to ensure efficient and fair communication service for the public. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the act into law following the increasing complexities of radio and telecommunications, echoing the need for an organized governmental body to manage the burgeoning industry.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

FDR's First Fireside Chat to the Nation

March 12th, 1933 92 years ago

Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his inaugural fireside chat via radio, addressing the American public for the first time as President of the United States. During this informal communication, he aimed to reassure citizens amidst the economic turmoil of the Great Depression. His conversational tone and clear explanations marked a new approach to presidential communication, fostering a sense of connection and trust. Roosevelt's remarks focused on the banking crisis and his administration's plans to restore confidence in the financial system. This event set the stage for a series of subsequent chats that would become a hallmark of his presidency.

Continue Reading
Entertainment

Columbia Broadcasting System Begins Operations

September 18th, 1927 97 years ago

The Columbia Broadcasting System, known for being one of America's major radio networks, commenced its operations with a series of broadcasts aimed at establishing a new national communications platform. Founded to compete with the National Broadcasting Company, CBS's inaugural broadcasts included news reports, music, and various entertainment shows, marking a significant step in the evolution of mass media in the United States. This launch aimed to reach a broader audience by expanding radio's influence across the country.

Continue Reading
Arts & Culture

First Broadcasting Station in Bombay Launched

July 23rd, 1927 97 years ago

The Indian Broadcasting Company inaugurated its first radio station in Bombay, marking a significant step in India's media landscape. This station began operating under the call sign 2ZY, airing programs that included music, drama, and educational content. The launch played a vital role in shaping public entertainment and information dissemination across the country. With limited technology available at the time, this station laid the groundwork for future broadcasting initiatives throughout India.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

First Long-Distance Public Television Broadcast

April 7th, 1927 98 years ago

Herbert Ives accomplished a major feat by transmitting the first long-distance public television broadcast from Washington, D.C., to New York City. The broadcast featured an image of Herbert Hoover, who was then the Commerce Secretary. This pioneering event showcased the potential of television as a medium for communication across great distances, marking a significant milestone in media history.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Calvin Coolidge Establishes Federal Radio Commission

February 23rd, 1927 98 years ago

Calvin Coolidge signed a bill establishing the Federal Radio Commission, which was created to regulate radio frequencies in the United States. This legislation came in response to the chaos in the radio broadcasting industry, marked by frequency interference and unregulated stations competing for airwaves. The Federal Radio Commission aimed to provide order and fairness in radio usage, thereby benefiting both broadcasters and listeners. This commission ultimately laid the groundwork for future regulatory bodies like the Federal Communications Commission.

Continue Reading
Technology & Innovation

First Transatlantic Commercial Telephone Service Begins

January 7th, 1927 98 years ago

The first commercial telephone service connecting New York City to London was established. This groundbreaking development revolutionized communication between the United States and Europe, enabling businesses and individuals to communicate over vast distances in real-time. The service utilized innovative technologies of the time and marked a significant step forward in telecommunications. The initiative was spearheaded by the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T), which saw the potential for increased international business and collaboration.

Continue Reading
Arts & Culture

Establishment of NHK in Japan

August 20th, 1926 98 years ago

Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai (NHK), Japan's public broadcasting organization, was established as a crucial communication medium. Founded to promote education and cultural dissemination, NHK began as a radio broadcaster and played a vital role in informing the Japanese public. Its mission was to provide reliable news and educational programming, ensuring access to information across the nation. NHK's establishment marked a significant shift in Japan's media landscape, leading to the expansion of broadcast technologies.

Continue Reading