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First Communication Sent Overseas
Guglielmo Marconi sends a morse code message saying "are you ready" over the Bristol Channel in Wales. -
Audion Tube Invented
The audion tube helps push waves further by providing power to the signal. It was originally invented by Reginald Fessenden and later perfected by Lee de Forest. -
First Ever Radio Station Goes On Air
The first ever radio station is KDKA, located in Pittsburgh. The creator would play music out of a phonograph into the microphone. -
First Ever Commercial Goes On Air
WEAF airs a 10-minute advertisement for an apartment complex. The station was only paid $50. -
Federal Radio Commission Created
The FRC is created to help clean up broadcast chaos. They decided to create call letters, power limits, and licensing of transmitters. By requiring a license to broadcast, "Uncle Charlie" stations could no longer take over paying radio stations. The FRC later changed its name to the FCC (Federal Communication Commission). -
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The Golden Era of Radio
During The Great Depression and World War II, radio became an escape. It served as cheap entertainment for everyone in the family. The radio industry boomed and many new shows were created. -
FM Radio Created
Edwin Armstrong creates FM Radio to allow the high dynamic range or music to come through on a clearer signal. This divides AM and FM radio.