Evolution of 20th Century Journalism: Trends and Impact
Journalism During the Twentieth Century
Throughout the century, we have seen a proliferation of daily, weekly, biweekly, and monthly publications. This is due to a progressive increase in readership. Technological progress has been incorporated, including the following: the telephone and fax replaced the telegraph, and modern printing techniques favored production chains. The creation of news agencies was determined by two factors:
- The Economy: In the early century, newspapers were supported by proceeds from public sales. Years later, profits rose thanks to the introduction of advertising. Newspapers became owned by large companies involved in diverse economic activities.
- Politics: The press became a powerful means of communication for many governments. Some were guarded by imposing censorship and other strictures, while others remained total.
The Press Between 1898 and 1936
Magazines saw an increase in expertise during this period. With a focus on literature, the press became an effective means to disseminate culture. This era allowed the public to access authors who were otherwise unavailable in books. Notable figures like Pío Baroja collaborated with newspapers to receive extra daily income. The press also spread the public image of novelists, essayists, and poets.
Leading Journalists of the Time
- Julio Camba: A foreign correspondent who published his best articles in major newspapers.
- Manuel Bueno: A journalist known for his unique word choice.
- Rafael Cansinos Assens: A novelist, poet, essayist, translator, and literary critic who directed literary magazines.
Every newspaper aligned with a political trend: El Imparcial was free and independent, El País was Republican, and ABC was conservative and Catholic.
The Press Between 1939 and 1975
At the end of the Civil War, some newspapers disappeared while others began their journey. Journalists and intellectuals collaborated with the press, though the industry suffered a huge setback. These 40 years can be divided into two stages:
- Uniformity: Characterized by strict control and limited editorial freedom.