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KDKA: First Commercial Radio Station
KDKA, which was operated by Westinghouse in Pittsburgh, became the first commercial radio station. It broadcasted the 1920 presidential election results and started mass media broadcasting in the US (PBS, 1998). -
The Radio Act of 1927
The Radio Act of 1927 established the Federal Radio Commission (FRC), which standardized radio frequencies and set broadcasting regulations. This act helped organize the radio industry and protect public interest (Morrison, 2009). -
FCC Licensing Freeze
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) freezes the issuance of new television licenses to resolve technical and regulatory issues. This lasted until 1952 and gave existing stations an advantage, creating a monopoly (Mitel, 2024). -
New York World's Fair: Television's Debut
RCA introduces television to the American public at the New York World's Fair. By showcasing this technology, the fair set the stage for television's sudden, rapid growth in the 1940s and 1950s (Han, 2014). -
"I Love Lucy" Premieres on CBS
"I Love Lucy" premieres and becomes one of television's most popular and influential shows (Rosenberg, 2017). It also becomes the first to use the three-camera technique and to film in front of a live studio audience. -
NBC'S "Today" Show Premieres
The "Today" Show becomes the first morning news and entertainment program, setting the standard for morning television. It starred Dave Garroway, blending news headlines and gimmicks (Shedden, 2024). -
President Kennedy is Assassinated
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy marked a significant moment in television journalism. Television networks covered the event and its aftermath for four straight days, which highlighted the power of television as a news medium (Battaglio, 2023). -
The Moon Landing Broadcast
The Apollo 11 moon landing was broadcast live on television and watched by millions worldwide, filmed with a black and white Westinghouse camera (Science & Media Museum, 2019). This event showcased the global impact of television.