The earliest known magazines were invented in the 1600s, beginning with a German publication in 1663. However, magazines did not become widely popular until the 1700s and 1800s. In 1731, the first magazine aimed at the general public was published in England. In the 1800s, magazines began including illustrations and photos to increase sales and popularity. Magazines were first published in America in 1741 and over 100 existed by the late 1700s, though they were initially only affordable to the wealthy. More affordable magazines for the general public emerged in the 1830s with a focus on entertainment. Special interest magazines proliferated in the late 1800s as literacy increased in America.

1. History of Magazines
Joseph Russo

2. Invention of magazines
• The printing press, which was invented in 1440, created a
way for knowledge could be mass produced for the first
time in human history. It was used to print newsletters,
Bibles etc.
• The earliest known example of modern magazines was
invented in 1663, created by German theologian Johann
Rist called “Edifying Monthly Discussions.”
• In 1672, the first “periodical of amusement” was
published. It contained news, songs, short verses and
gossip. It became very popular in France although it had
more amusing content rather than intellectual content.

3. Invention of magazines continued
• In 1731, an Englishman named Edward Cave published a
periodical called The Gentleman’s Magazine. His goal was
to create a magazine that the general public would be
interested in. He was the first publisher to successfully
fashion a wide-ranging publication such as essays and
poems.
• In 1842, British newsagent Herbert Ingram created the
first illustrated magazine. He realised that the
illustrations contributed to magazine sales, so he began
publishing The Illustrated London News. It was also the
first magazine to include photos.

4. History of Magazines in America
• First published in 1741. They became incredibly popular
in America and by the end of the 18th century there were
more than 100 magazines in USA.
• Early periodicals were so expensive that only the wealthy
could afford them. They were aimed toward the most
learned, cultured and sophisticated individuals of the
day.
• By the 1830’s less expensive aimed at the general public
began to emerge. These magazines focused more on
amusement and entertainment.

5. History of Special Interest Magazines
• America’s magazine market increased in the late 1800’s
in large part due to compulsory education and increased
literacy. Periodicals were created specifically for lawyers,
artists, musicians etc.
• The magazines showcased essays and fiction pieces
written by the best writers of the day.