Changing influence of the press over time : an exploration into the intersection of media, politics and public perception

Abstract

Since the first multi-page newspaper was printed in colonial America in 1690, journalism has had an impact on the way the public views current events. By focusing on the early emergence of newspapers in America and how information was disseminated over time, we have a better understanding of why the founding fathers created the First Amendment. Our current interpretation of the First Amendment and our views on the freedom of the press all stem back to the struggle for the right to speak out against despotic governments. Since then, the press has grown into not just a voice of the people, but a medium for commentary and persuasion.