The Prelinger Archives video, The Story of Television (1956), describes the development of the early television and the significance during the time period. The early television was able to televise numerous important events in American history such as:
- Franklin D. Roosevelt (first president ever seen on television)
- King & Queen of England
- First baseball game
- National political conventions
- Entertainment (basic comedy shows)
- Local/National News
It is fascinating to see the early television was so heavily raved about because it introduced a new form of global communication. The television not only allowed Americans to communicate not only verbally and aurally, but also visually. Understanding the basic foundations of the television is important because you are able to see not only the differences and advancements in television, but the similarities of the old technology to the new technology. The reason television, in both its beginning works and in modern society, succeeded was because it employed millions of workers as well as utilized the opportunity of "effective advertising." I think advertising is arguably one of the most important industries of the economy. Without it,companies would have difficulties promoting their products and services. This video may seem simple and only offers the basic perception of the television in the mid-1900's, it allows the viewer to make connections to present time, see how it has effected other sources of mass communication such as advertising and understand why the television has worked all these years.
It's interesting to have a glimpse at the public reaction to (what was at the time at least) very new and innovative technologies. It raises some questions as to what our society's reactions may be when a new technology as big and different as TV was for that era may come along today. How we will use that new technology (if it ever comes)?
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Mei Li, about saying that advertising is one of the most important parts of the economy. While at times this annoys me when I am trying to watch a TV show and a suspenseful moment happens and then it cuts to commercials (sigh), I understand how necessary said commercials are. That said, I think that you also brought up a good point by saying it allowed people to communicate visually, which I think is why it had such a lasting impact on our society. The telephone allowed people of the time to communicate verbally, but they didn't have anything of a visual stimulant until television (and later, internet). Interesting!
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