This document provides an overview of the functions and development of the media in American political history. It discusses how the media helps gather and disseminate information to the public through various sources like newspapers, radio, television, and the internet. While the main goal of informing the public has remained the same, the ways information is delivered has changed significantly over time. The document also examines the relationship between the media and politics and different models of how political news is produced and framed for public consumption.